Skye's Ramblings

Completing Treatment and Christmas 2011 in NZ

2012-01-03T22:43:00.000-08:00

Last time I recall writing in this blog, I was about half way through radiotherapy treatment…basically, blasting my boob to be burnt to a crisp. Not the rosy path the oncologist and others have you believing you will be traveling down. My breast was burnt bad! Like a 2nd or 3rd degree burn…then there was the blistering…and the pain…and of course there were emotions…always those bloody emotions! And, cement brain! I was so handicapped with any brain function! And then the exhaustion covered me like a blanket…eek! Don’t ever go through this!

Rob returned from Amsterdam on the 22nd of November…I drove to AKL to pick him up at O’Dark Thirty…all overseas flights seem to land at some ridiculous hour of the morning…ugh. Driving to the airport @ 4:30 am is an experience that I am not sure I ever want to deal with…literally, the only people on the road at that time are the people like me…driving to AKL to pick up their loved ones. And heaps of Taxis… And if you know how much I drive here...Luckily, I did not have any unexpected detours… ;) Boy, was it so great to see Rob! Two weeks is a long time on my own…but when you are on an emotional rollercoaster…it is an eternity.

Rob took me to my treatment that day, and also to meet with my oncologist. Not sure he was prepared to see the burns & blisters, and to hear the oncologist talk about the fatigue & blisters that would get worse after the radiotherapy treatments had stopped. I made sure my calendar was completely empty for two weeks after treatment…and I was so glad I did. The best way to describe the side effects of radiotherapy is that you have such limited energy and motivation. And also…there is a very evident pain! Blisters are not pleasant. And then you are to expect this to get worse for at least two weeks after treatment!! Thankfully I have passed over those two weeks, and now I am gaining back some of my brain function as well as my energy.

I was so fortunate to have some alternative forms of healing available to me as well…Reiki Healing, and also some counseling at the Cancer Society. I really would have gone mad if I had not had these outlets…so much you learn when you face adversity…And…the support of friends and family…I truly do appreciate all of the kindness from all the people in my life! I have enjoyed all of the cards, letters, e-mails and Skype calls! What a wide net of support from all over the world!

I have finally received the many gifts and cards from my sister-in-laws that they sent from ladies weekend in early October. So many sweet sentiments and thoughtful gifts…especially excited to be wearing that bright pink bra!! Finally received, because the package travelled from the USA to NZ and then back to the USA…something about NZ Courier Post not being able to deliver to us??? Crikey! We have always received packages!! I also had to pay an extra $25.00 NZ to obtain the contents of another package that was sent by a friend…they had to make sure the flax seeds and lavender were sterilized…OIY!! The sisters gifts were hand delivered by Emmy & Chris as they arrived here in AKL on the 19th of December.

It was so fantastic to have Emmy & Chris here!! We tramped in the Waitakere ranges @ Fairy Falls, tramped at Tawharinui, and tramped all over Tiritiri Matangi Island. The bush has been amazing! So much green!! And so many birds!! We also enjoyed a beautiful day sail on the Waitemata Harbour with our good mates, Chris & J9. We tramped along the Te Hunga Track from Bethell’s Beach to O’Neill’s Beach, went wine tasting in the Kumeu Valley…basically did many day trips from our humble abode above the Waitemata Harbour. And Chris & Emmy jumped off the Sky Tower!! EEEEK!!! Christopher made sure we joined some of his intense workouts with Emmy as well!! Gotta love having healthy minded kids here to give us a kick in the backside! New Year’s Eve we spent working out, playing petanque, and enjoying nibbles and drinks with our lovely neighbors. And of course…Liar’s Dice until 1:30 am!! Happy New Year! Wishing y’all heaps of happiness and health throughout the year!

~Skye xo

PS. Since I have written this post…Chris & Emmy have returned to the States…we had such a fantastic time together, and I hope it is not too long before we see our kids again!

What A Wild Ride…

2011-11-16T03:29:00.000-08:00

Hmmmn…last time I wrote in my blog post I was on a true high coming off the most beautiful time spent at Emmy & Chris’ Wedding. Then, Rob & I went off to Sedona, Arizona to celebrate our 30 years of marriage, and great friendship. I know that I mentioned that I would write about that trip…but time has gotten away from me, and the thing I remember the most is how much we loved Sedona! Every day was another amazing day there. If you have never been to Sedona…well, you must go there to see for yourself!

So…that time that has gotten away from me…oh wow! Blink, blink and life has thrown some curve balls that I was not expecting or even wanting to welcome. The big C…as in cancer has now been on the forefront of my mind since late August. Thank goodness that my GP reminded me that I was due for my yearly mammogram…because that is something I do not wake up thinking that is what I must do today…Hmmmn…let’s see…squeeze the bejeezus out of my boobs. No, thank you. But, being the good girl that I am…I went to my appointment with the boob squeezer…aka mammographer.

I had also been very down with an awful cough…one that needed multiple visits to the GP…tonsillitis, and then a really full on chest infection…I was barking worse than the neighbor’s dog. I thought our landlord, who happens to be our neighbor, was going to inquire as to when we acquired a dog….a dog that is prohibited on our premises! I even pulled a muscle in my leg while I was in a coughing spasm. Not a good thing to do at any time…ever!

So…On August 18th when I went to the Auckland Breast Centre for my ‘routine’ mammogram, all was well in my world. Well..except for the bloody cough! The radiologist who I met moments after my mammogram was pleased with what he saw…but, he did say that another radiologist would have a look before they were going to sign me off back to my GP. And…of course I thought his positive attitude meant that I was in the clear. I even saw my GP and told her that the radiologist had been very positive that my mammogram was perfect.

4 days later the phone rang and it was the mammographer. She said she needed me to return to the Breast Centre…for a few more x-rays, as the 2nd radiologist had noticed something, and she needed more angles to look at. I asked when she needed me to come back, and she said ’immediately”. Well, I was not available until the next day, and she made it clear that I should be at the Breast Centre at 8AM. I asked if I should be concerned, and she said that they just needed more x-rays. So I was fine with Rob dropping me off the next day on his way to work. Little did I know what events would unfold in the space of 2 hours…more and more x-rays, more and more waiting, and then the radiologist that wanted to have an ultrasound. During the ultrasound, he said….”hmmmn”…and then he said, “we need a biopsy”. And me…being very naïve, asked, “when”?? And he said, “now”…and I really was not prepared for this. So, immediately I was having a needle biopsy, which is not the piece of cake he described. I am sure if he told me how it would feel…I would have fled. I left the Breast Centre completely shattered thinking that I could be facing a real battle. You cannot imagine the thoughts racing through my mind!

Two days later, I had an appointment to see a Breast Cancer Surgeon…wow…how fast pathologists work when there is a question…??? Rob accompanied me to this appointment as the receptionist made it clear to me that I was to bring a support person along with me. They must know that after a biopsy, your mind goes down the wrong path…which leads to complete brain failure. All you really think about is…’do I have cancer, and is it going to kill me’ ? …The cancer bomb is not a good one…especially when the Breast Surgeon that you have never met begins his introduction with “ Nice to meet you, however, there is no easy way to say this…you have breast cancer”. Hmmmn….never had the blood drain out of my body in one swift second as it did that very moment. Rob says I went absolutely white…and wide eyed. I am just grateful that he was there…because I did not hear much else. I guess that is why they ask you to bring someone close to you…

Timing is brilliant…of course we were planning to go on holiday! The surgeon wanted me to go into surgery at the first available time, but we had booked our holiday a year out…and decided that we did not need insurance…so we had a conflict. The surgeon was happy for us to go on holiday if I would have a CT scan to make sure we were not dealing with any other cancer in my body. So, a few days later, I was back to another radiology lab, being poked, and poked , and poked until they finally got my vein with an IV. Owwwww! But, that scan was good because it told us that there was no other cancer lurking in other parts of my body. And, now the surgeon was happy to let us go off on our holiday…with the understanding that we would return, and then I would undergo surgery, and other treatment.

In retrospect…I wish that we had rescheduled our holiday…by day I was fine…it was the cancer monster that came out at night when I was trying to sleep. I had also decided to keep this information very close to me and Rob, and Ross, Emmy & Chris…as we did not really know what we were dealing with. Pathology had all the answers, and we would not know anything until after the surgery. But…surgery was still off in the distance. In between our holiday and my surgery, Rob had to travel overseas to Monaco for a business sales meeting. The day after he got back to Auckland, I was off to Southern Cross Hospital for surgery.

Don’t ever let a surgeon tell you that surgery is a piece of cake…maybe for him! I just remember waking up in the recovery room wondering where the hell I was. I couldn’t focus on anything, and people kept swimming in and out of my vision. My mouth was so dry it was like I had been licking sand, and all I wanted was water. However…the anesthesia was still so strong that water was not a good option…in fact, nothing was a good option. Nothing like trial by error…oops…lots of errors. Ugh! That night in the hospital was so surreal…nurses constantly checking up on me…getting me out of my sedated stupor. Not sure why you need to be in a hospital to rest, because you don’t do much resting. Poke, poke, poke…I just wanted to get in my own bed.

Finally, I was discharged…but not after the nurse tried to convince me to spend another night. No way! I was going home where there were no more IV’s, and no more interruptions! Rob picked me up and we went to have a coffee at the Takapuna Beach Café, and then a little walk along the beach. Just breathing fresh air was so amazing! Of course…I had no idea how awful the effect of anesthesia would be on me…so began a four day spate of nausea that was truly intense. The anesthesiologist even got a bit concerned that I couldn’t shake off the nausea/vomiting. After day 4, I started to feel like I was finally going to resurface, and recuperate.

Since the surgery, which I have recovered from…there have been appointments with various specialists to discuss pathology and treatment. And a bonus appointment with a medical oncologist to make sure I did not need to be tested for genetic cancer mutations…BRCA1 or BRAC 2 genes. Yipes! Luckily, it was determined that I would not need the testing, as that just opens up a whole can of worms…

I am now into 3 weeks of radiotherapy treatment. I have 2 more weeks to go… and it seems like an eternity. The other day the radiotherapy nurse asked me how I was going…well, I said…”I think I am over all of this”…and then came a complete breakdown of emotions. It just makes me feel so completely vulnerable…and all I want to do is run away and hide. My breast is beginning to burn, my chest is getting a nasty rash, and I am as tired as a rag doll. Not the easy peasy path I thought I was going to be going down.

Jeez…it is a job just to get to the hospital ever day…traffic is a huge bummer, so I have decided to buck the traffic & take public transport. It is the best option at that time of the day, as driving can make you a crazy, stressed basket of nerves. I wonder if those therapists would come to my house everyday with their fancy radiotherapy machines…now, that would be awesome! Maybe that is in the future of cancer therapy?

I am looking forward to Rob coming home soon…he has been in Amsterdam at the METS show, and a big training with Mastervolt. I’ll be meeting Rob at the airport next week with big hugs!! And then in a few weeks Emmy & Chris are coming down to spend Christmas & New Year with us! That will be the best Christmas pressie!! I wish Ross was coming as well, but…that is not in the plans…hopefully, we will meet up with Ross soon!

Bottom line…I am very fortunate that they have found this cancer very early on. If you have not had a mammogram, and you are a first degree family member…you better get your breast on the squeezer! It could save your life.

As you all celebrate Thanksgiving…give thanks for your health, and your beautiful families & friends…because that’s what life is all about. Or…at least I think so!

The Wedd'n!

2011-06-05T12:40:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,
I left Auckland on May 7th to fly home to California…lots of wedding details to be hammered out before the big day on May 21. I flew on the same flight as one of Rob’s work mates, Jarrod. Jarrod was flying through SFO to business meetings in Amsterdam and France. It appeared that our flight was going to be early….something I always celebrate!! Then… we flew over SFO in a holding pattern for what seemed to be forever! Ugh! I am so glad I did not have a tight connection to try to make, as customs was at high alert due to the recent news regarding Osama Bin Laden. I was a very happy camper to get through customs, and out the door to meet Emmy. We bid farewell to Jarrod and got on the road for our trip to Sacramento.
We drove straight back to Sacramento, as Emmy had what we thought was going to be the final fitting of her wedding dress. But…somehow they made a boo boo in the previous alterations, and now we needed to come back again for the final fitting. I was completely knackered! At one point I was talking to Emmy, and then I was completely asleep…needless to say that when we returned to Emmy & Chris’ house, I went straight to bed. This jet lag had really hit me hard.
My plan was to work with Emmy on all the loose ends, and tighten up all the plans that were already in motion. If I had gone to Sonoma…we all know that I would never have been as productive as I was in Sacramento. I also had the privilege of cooking a bit for the kids. I loved having Chris tell me how much he appreciated home cooked meals…I will cook for those kids anytime!! I can’t tell you how fast that first week flew! Blink, blink, and we were picking up the wedding dress, packing the car & driving to Sonoma for the week before the wedding activities.
One of the greatest concerns for us was the weather…that first week in Sacramento was nice enough, but the forecast was changing dramatically…rain, rain, and more rain! Heaps and heaps of rain with lovely bits of hail as well. Oh joy! Once we got to Sonoma, we had one last meeting with the cake baker, and then off to the site to meet up with the caterer and the photo booth vendor. We still were trying to assess whether or not we would rent an event tent…but seeing that the wind was howling through the site, it only took me one minute to make a decision to rent that tent. And, of course, Maryellen, the caterer helped me decide by telling me we really needed to define the space. Whilst we were checking out the barn I was having a difficult time envisioning simple décor…but after going through the layout with Neil & Maryellen, I was feeling a bit more confident that we could achieve a simple yet elegant décor for that very empty barn. The wedding site, with the views through the vineyard to the surrounding hills in the valley, would be what most people would take home with them…. It is like any re-do…the vision will come to life as you are able to get your ideas into action.
And action is what occupied us throughout the week. We even had an action register with people assigned to each action. So organized! First item on the list was a lovely bridal shower hosted by the maid of honor, Megan. I was in charge of organizing all of the food. Many thanks to my sisters, sister-in-laws, mother-in-law, and friends for bringing such delish food!! Megan put together such an amazing setting in her parent’s back yard. This girl knows how to set the scene…and every detail was carried out with finesse! There were 45 or 50 women in the family, and a few very close friends in attendance. It was definitely a great way to set the stage for the activities to follow throughout the week. Next time I have a party…I will be consulting with Megan!
After the bridal shower, all the girls headed out to San Francisco for the bachelorette party. They had a custom game that was designed by one of the bride’s maids…Michelle. It sounded very clever, and from their stories it sounded like they all enjoyed their night out with Emmy. I could not believe that some of the bachelorette party would get up so early and run in the Bay-to-Breakers, an annual SF event…but there was proof via Facebook, that Megan, Emmy, Leanna & Tracy got in their race outfits and started the race…good on ya girls! I did hear that they were thoroughly freaked out by all the naked, old men jogging/running along- side them…eek!
After the girls left the shower…I went off to my dear friend, Anne’s house. Ross came up from Alameda, and the three of us walked into town and had a lovely dinner together at Harvest Moon. Oh my! If you have never been there…it is fantastic! It was very crowded, but we were able to huddle under some over head heaters and enjoy the back garden before the rain let loose. And then the rain started…aaak! All night it poured!
Sunday, Ross went off to his company planned outing, and Anne & I went off to Inverness. My first wish was to be able to visit the spot where my mum was laid to rest. We had planted her favorite colored rhododendron, and I wanted to see that it was doing well. It was gorgeous! One of the flowers had come into full bloom, with many more buds getting ready to burst open…also, some very special person had found some more heart shaped stones and set them on the large heart shaped rock that was put near the rhododendron the day we had the burial service. It was a peaceful, beautiful visit. A very emotional moment for me…
I had also rallied a few girlfriends to brave the weather and join me on a hike to the top of Mt. Vision. At the start of our hike…we just had little spits of rain, and then it seemed to clear nicely for the majority of our climb up the mountain. This was a hike that I had done many times during my childhood, and I was honored to have Nichola and Lisa join me and Anne. We reached our picnic spot on the top of the mountain, overlooking the Point Reyes Peninsula just as a huge, black cloud was moving our way. Anne & Lisa came prepared with winter garb…I lent Nichola a waterproof jacket…and we all huddled around our picnic table as a fierce hail storm unloaded on us. I will have to say we laughed hare at the irony of the timing! What? Hail storms on Mt. Vision in May? We managed to eat our lunch, and set off for the return trip down the mountain. Not long after we left our picnic spot…the rain/hail stopped, and we enjoyed a gorgeous hike back down to Inverness. Oh what a special place Inverness is…very close to my heart!
As soon as we returned to Sonoma…the wedding work went into full gear! Emmy & I set out on a very rainy Monday to Santa Rosa to shop for decorating supplies at Michael’s Crafts, look at rental plants, and exchange some gifts that had been duplicated. That kind of shopping really drained me…when we were leaving the car park to head home in a driving rain storm…I had a panic attack! Was this rain ever going to go away? And were we going to be able to get this venue decorated and ready in time for Saturday? I couldn’t believe how calm Emmy was…hmmn…I was the one who was supposed to be keeping Emmy calm.
Relatives started arriving on Tuesday, the tent went up on Wednesday, a trip to the flower mart in SF was at o’dark hundred on Thursday, pedicures/manicures were scheduled for Friday as well as the wedding rehersal & dinner…and Saturday after hair and make up there were photos…lots of them before the wedding! All the time in between was spent on set up…
Thankfully, and army of friends and relies pulled together and helped out so we could achieve the setting! We have so many people to thank for their amazing generosity and support! Those thank you wishes will be personal…I am sure you all know who you are!
My mum must have been up in heaven helping out with the weather! Saturday was sunny and beautiful with a slight breeze! It was such fun to be able to be with Emmy & her girls getting ready for the ceremony. Lots of nervous jitters riveting through me…but I managed to keep my composure better than I thought I would. Before I knew it…the limousine arrived, and we were off to the wedding site for more pre ceremony photos. Laurie, our photographer, did an amazing job with all the photos…what an incredibly talented friend!
All the gorgeous guys had cleaned up, and donned their tuxedo’s…what a beautiful group of friends and relies! As soon as these photos were taken, Rob & the girls all went back to the limousine to have a little drive around while the guests began arriving. I had one little adjustment to my wedding outfit…a little surprise that I had kept from everyone. I had a custom hat made for me in NZ to go with my dress…a big surprise to most everyone! Joe & Denise and I welcomed the guests as they arrived…what fun catching up with all the friends and relies!! Very brief catch ups…and lots of love and happiness was flowing!
And then… the ceremony! Joe escorted both Denise & me down the aisle, then the bride’s maids & groomsmen…followed by the most adorable little ring bearer holding the hands of the two darling flower girls! One of the little flower girls got into throwing the rose petals down, while the other got upset and tried picking up the petals…soooo cute! And then…the aisle runner came down and our gorgeous Emmy on the arm of her Daddy. Gulp…got a big hitch in my heart, as tears started to escape…deep breath…and got that flow to stop briefly. Emmy & Chris were brilliant! There were some fun moments in the ceremony that had everyone giggling…as the feeling of love and support was incredible! In a very short time we were all cheering and welcoming Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Kirkwood! There was just so much happiness in my heart!!
Once this wedding started…there was only a good time to be had…and that we did! From the awesome setting, to the photo booth , the food, the wine, and the dancing!! Oh boy was the dancing a blast!! And of course it was fantastic to see family friends, and meet more family and friends. Emmy & Chris sure have some amazing people in their lives! It was a total shock when the DJ announced the last song…we wanted to dance for days! We stayed until the wee hours visiting with the late crowd and Tony & Christine…our friends that own the venue. It was all just the greatest party!
After the relatively easy clean up on Sunday, we gathered once again with family & friends in the Sonoma Plaza to have a chance to visit some before we all went off on our next journey. Emmy & Chris were going off to Whistler, B.C. for their honeymoon, and Rob & I were going off to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary in Sedona, Arizona. I have no idea how I was able to organize all of luggage…but being the early bird, I got up and started packing before we went to the venue to do the final clean up. Thankfully, Ross was able to hold on to our extra luggage at his cottage in Alameda until we flew back to NZ out of SFO.
So now I am on the plane about one hour out of AKL…I’ll be writing about Sedona in my next blog…as this post is getting on a bit in length…To all of you who were a part of the wedding times…thank you all for making Chris & Emmy’s wedding so special! It is a very special privilege to officially be a part of Chris’ wonderful family!

Tossing About in The Tasman Sea

2011-03-02T20:38:00.000-08:00

Abel Tasman National Park – Tossing About in The Tasman Sea

Summer continues to be warm and at times very humid here in New Zealand. But today the chilly south wind is blowing and I have had to get my jumper on (aka sweater). It is nothing near as cold as it sounds back in the Sonoma! Snow? I guess those false spring days got you all in the mood that winter was over. Looks like winter has come storming back!

At the end of January, my brother, Todd, and his partner, Barbara arrived in New Zealand for a brief visit. We showed them around our little village, took them out to Tiritiri Matangi Island where I volunteer, and then sent them off to tour the Bay of Islands on their own. They returned the following Friday evening, and we heard all about their adventures in the Northland. The next day we ferried over to Waiheke Island and did an interesting art/sculpture walk along the coastline. Todd & Barbara seemed to have had a great visit here in NZ. Barbara especially loved combing the beaches for beach glass…what a collector she is!

Just a little over a week after Todd & Barbara left NZ, Ross flew in from SFO. We had been planning a trip down in the South Island in the Abel Tasman National Park. We signed up for a combination 3 day/2 night kayak/tramping trip with a company called Wilson’s Abel Tasman National Park. Ross arrived at o’dark thirty on the 10th of February, and Rob & I drove out to AKL airport to pick him up. Back home in Devonport we finished our last minute packing and left on the 11th for Nelson. Rob had to pack two different kinds of bags, as he was travelling on to Amsterdam as soon as we finished our kayak/tramping trip.

The company that we booked with to do the Abel Tasman Trek with picked us up at our hotel bright and early on Saturday. We weren’t sure when they were going to arrive…hoping to be the last pick up…but we were the first, so we scrambled downstairs to check out and hop on the bus. Luckily, we could keep our extra luggage at the hotel, because Ross & I were going to return to the same hotel. After multiple stops at the various hotels/motels and bus stops, we headed out to Motueka. Motueka is about a ½ an hour drive from Nelson on the way to the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park. There were 21 in our group including 3 guides…2 guides for the kayakers, and one guide for the trampers.

We arrived in Kaiteriteri about another ½ hour out of Motueka, where those of us who were kayaking departed the bus. Mike and Gina were are fearless kayak guides, and in a very short time they had us briefed on technique and safety…and off we went…into the Tasman Sea. We were all in double kayaks except Mike, who had a single kayak. Considering none of us had any experience kayaking, I was pretty impressed that we all looked to be doing well as we got into our trip. The wind picked up a bit before we paddled ashore for lunch, and Mike instructed us to go straight into the waves to avoid capsizing. He and Gina also instructed us on how to land a kayak on the beach without toppling out of the boat. We all passed our landing lesson onto the beach at Stillwell Bay… joining our group of trampers .

As we were getting ready to continue our journey to the next destination where we would stay at Torrent Bay beachfront lodge, Mike and Gina gathered us up to talk seriously about safety again, as the wind was starting to pick up. They told us about a stretch of coastline known as the ‘Mad Mile’…and they wanted to make sure that we were all prepared to paddle hard. They also told us that once we got going, we would not have an option to pull out…so we really better make our paddling count. Head into the waves, and not let your boat get hit by a side wave. We all thought that the Mad Mile was going to be over when we reached a prominent point that we could see from our lunch spot. So…it did not seem like it would be such a horrible challenge. I don’t think any of us realized that after our trip to that point was when the Mad Mile began… and around that point was where the wind was HOWLING heaps!!

We were taking wave after wave after wave…head on. Our skirts that were supposed to keep us dry as the waves hit were leaking. After what seemed like eons, Rob yelled up to me and asked if I had water in the boat. Well, yes I did…I had a bath. He thought we should not have so much water in the boat, so he asked Gina about it. Gina and Ross, were towing an elder couple from Germany, who were really struggling to stay up with the group. I am not sure what Gina said to Rob, but within a minute of her answering, we got slammed by another wave that had us going sideways, and then BAM! We were upside down under water. Thankfully, we paid attention to how to release the skirt if you were to capsize. Out of the water popped Rob…and then me. Both sputtering, and remembering to hold onto the boat and the paddle. Unfortunately, we were getting blown about by the waves and it made it very difficult to swim to Mike’s kayak. I am a very strong swimmer, but I felt like I was not going to make it the way we were being tossed about. I completely panicked…swallowed water…and started hyper ventilating. And I thought there was no way we were going to be able to get back in that kayak without further distress. We were losing ground rapidly, that had taken us ages to paddle. Once we were able to get the water out of our cubbies, Mike flipped the kayak, and rafted up to our kayak. At this point, time was of the essence, as we were continually hammered by wave after wave. Mike had a line that he secured over the lip of my seat that was long enough to create a step for me. He was yelling at me to just get on the step and pull myself into the boat. Sounded so easy…but I was stuffed, and I was still panicking, and I felt like my arms would not move. Adrenaline kicked in as I thought of a shark coming to get me… I catapulted from the water into the seat. My knee was bent wrong, and it took further strength to wrangle myself into my seat. Whew! Mike helped me snap my skirt back on, and then he moved on to get Rob in the boat. Rob was up and in a lot easier than me, and as soon as he was in Mike attached a tow line from his kayak to our kayak …and we started paddling as fast as we could to shore. An Aqua Taxi came by to check on us, and help out with some of our debris that came loose from our kayaks. Mike and Rob both assured him that we would be fine, and that we could make it to shore…they didn’t give me a chance to beg for a ride…

The rest of the group was struggling as well…luckily, no one else had capsized. The German couple had started paddling alone, and they were paddling to the wrong cove. So, again, Ross, and Gina had to paddle like mad towing another kayak to get to the German couple and get them to head toward the Torrent Bay beach. Finally, Rob & I were back in our kayak with 95% less water sloshing under our skirts…we were still crashing up and down through the waves, but we were making some progress. At some point Mike unhooked the tow rope, and we began paddling in toward the beach. Instead of hitting the waves head on, we were surfing the waves in…I was still terrified that we would be swamped again. I just wanted to get to land and collapse. Our paddle into land on the beach was classic…I ended up face first in the sand thanks to Rob jumping out first before I could get out. Hmmn…I had serious doubts about any further kayaking…especially if it would be in rough seas. The rest of the kayakers landed safely, and we all pulled our kayaks up to the racks outside the Torrent Bay Lodge. The only things on my mind at that point were a shower, and a nap…in that order. Got the shower, and felt revived enough to skip the nap.

That night after an amazing dinner, Mike & Gina wanted to have a little download on the day with the Kayak group. It was pretty evident that once we started on that Mad Mile, we were all pretty overwhelmed by the power of the raging ocean. Everyone spoke of their real fears and experiences…and Mike wanted to make sure we were all ok with kayaking on the next day. It took quite a bit of persuading to get me to concede that I would go out on a raging ocean. My concession was…if it was calm on the water in the morning, I would go with the kayakers…otherwise, I would be a tramper, and join the other group. I was truly traumatized out there in that tossing sea, and there was no way I was going to repeat that experience.

Before going to bed, I packed my pack as if I would be tramping the next day. I don’t think I moved an inch after my head hit the pillow that night...my arms felt like concrete, and everything was swaying. I slept like a brick. The morning arrived and lo and behold…there was not a ripple on the ocean. So…now my pack had to be repacked, as I was once again going out into the ocean with my team mates. We had an easy peasy paddle compared to the day before…went around two islands that were teaming with fur seals & rafted up with Mike & Gina to get a history of the coastline that we were kayaking through. The baby seals were adorable, and Mike had a special call that they answered back to him. We also had a little blue penguin pop up in front of us. It was a totally different experience than the day before. And…no capsizing today! We kayaked in to our lunch spot, Onetahuti Bay, had some swims, and waited for the trampers to catch up with us. The water was definitely refreshing, but once you got in, you could stay in for a good bit. The colors of the ocean were amazing green blue, aqua blue, turquoise…just amazing colors!

An Aqua Taxi arrived at the beach to pick up Gina and the kayaks, as we were now going to be tramping for the rest of our stay. We bid farewell to Gina …we were going to miss her! Eventually, the trampers arrived and we joined them on the last bit of their tramp to the Meadowbanks Homestead Lodge. Now we had Mike and John as our guides as we tramped up through the Tonga Saddle and the bush toward Meadowbank Homestead Lodge. All along the way, the guides imparted a lot of their knowledge of the flora and fauna, and the history of the area. Another long day out in the open air and sea, had me plum tuckered once again. That shower felt like a true luxury! Once again we were treated to a delicious dinner and great socializing with our group mates.

Day three had us tramping to Totaranui…the end of the trek. After breakfast, we all boarded a barge and were taxied up the estuary at Awaroa Bay. Getting off the barge into the mud flats was quite textural experience as the mud gooshed through our toes until we reached the trail head. It was almost like walking through a pot of porridge…but mud colored and full of clam shells. We tramped in and around a number of coves with green glistening waters and golden sand beaches…through the bush until we arrived at Totaranui. The scenery on this trek was outstanding…I guess it helped that we had perfect weather…except for the first day in the kayaks… Our ferry taxi picked us up at Totaranui, and ferried us down the coast to Anchorage Bay where we got off and ate lunch and had the option of a walk with our guide, John, or a swim at the beach. Rob & I joined the walkers as he was going to be going right to the airport for a flight to Amsterdam. Thankfully, he was able to find a shower when he got to AKL. Ross & I were delivered back to our hotel and spent two very relaxing days in Nelson. The day Ross flew home to SFO, Rob arrived back from Amsterdam. We had a lovely lunch together, and then took Ross via the ferry to the Airbus.

Two days after Ross left NZ, there was a devastating earthquake in Christchurch, which is on the South Island. Christchurch is a city in ruins, and today they announced that the rescue of the missing has become a recovery effort. They continue to have pretty significant aftershocks, and recently there was a news story about a guy predicting that another big earthquake will hit the region in March or April. Enough already for those poor people!! Please rest assured…we are fine, and far away from the area that was affected. This earthquake has really shattered us all here in NZ.

Here’s hoping you all are gearing up for a gorgeous Springtime in the States!

My Amazing Mom

2011-01-12T00:58:00.000-08:00

MOM...spelled with three simple letters, but let me say those letters are far from simple when you think of what mom has meant to me in my life. She was the mom that could do it all...fix dinner for 13, and still have room at the table for a few more of our friends to join in. And that was a daily task...Kind of like the loaves and the fishes...And the laundry! If I ever thought I have done a lot of laundry in my life...well, she did at least 12 times more.

Some of my fondest memories are of the early mornings waking early while mom was baking the daily loaves of bread. I would come into the kitchen, crawl under the kitchen counter where the heater vent was, get nice and warm, and visit with mom until the bread came out of the oven. Often, she would offer me a cup of hot chocolate, and that amazing fresh bread...lightly toasted. It was just quiet time for us to visit...considering there was a bit of competition to get her attention, I cherished these moments. I can still smell that amazing warmth even though it has been donkey’s years since I have had that experience. And cookie baking after school...nothing like fresh, home made cookies and milk after school.

Mostly, Mom was a friend, a confidant...someone I could share anything that was going on in my life with. She listened to my woes, and always had one solution or another for me to consider. Even though we missed each other terribly, I kept her updated on our life abroad in NZ through the use of Skype. It was her once/weekly time to tell it like it is...because we all know that mom just did not beat around the bush. Mom said what she felt! No holds barred...she also didn’t really care what others thought of her. She was just real.

From the time I heard that mom was on her way to the Emergency Room on December 3, 2010 until the time I made arrangements for a visit back home, I truly thought mom would pull through this illness and return home to her busy life. There was no one telling me to get on a plane fast...just a suggestion from Todd that if I wanted to see mom it might be a good idea to come home. There was no emergency alarm in his voice. It wasn’t until I came through the customs door at SFO and saw my two kids sobbing...that I knew that things had gone from mom is going to recover, to a very grave situation in a very short time. Mom was waiting for those of us traveling home to say goodbye. I am so grateful that she was able to hang on so I could give her my final hugs and convey my love to her.

It is all a blur since that night at the hospital when the doctor took us aside and outlined mom’s wishes. She was amazing...she was completely lucid, and very aware of her wishes. We sang and prayed with mom...and we all gave her our love and lots of tears. It was really quite surreal. Then, she slipped into the morphine zone, and drifted peacefully off to heaven.

What has happened since mom passed is a lot of intense emotions mixed with sleep deprivation, and a feeling that my head is not connected to my body. So many tasks that needed to be done before the ceremony, and thankfully we all pulled together as a team and pulled off an amazing service and reception that mom would have been proud to be at. It was truly a community outpouring of love and affection toward our amazing mom.

Also...the enormous task of moving mom’s personal items out of her apartment. She even wrote a column about 'Pack Rats...Are You One Of Them'? Mom was the ultimate pack rat! She kept that Thrift Shop in Pt. Reyes Station in business. Funny that they were so fussy about taking back what she had purchased ...hmmmn. So...off to Goodwill instead.

So now I am back in the land of the Kiwi...looking down my list of phone numbers that I store on Skype, and not able to take mom’s number off that list. Lots of tears are popping out of my eyes...I can pretend to call her...she always told me that it is okay to talk out loud to yourself...especially when you need to sort things out. So mom...since you are out there, I will still continue having those great conversations with you...and I will always love you, and hold you deep in my heart. God bless you mom!

An amazing poem that was shared by a special person in my life:

Your mother lives inside your laughter,
She's the place you come from.
Your first home.
She's your first love
And your first heartbreak.
And nothing on earth can separate you.
Not time, not space...not even death.
You carry her inside you.

Sending love and hugs to all. xoxo, ~Skye

Summer Is On It's Way

2010-11-27T23:59:00.000-08:00

Last time I wrote i believe I was on 'Holiday High'...which I believe lasted about 3 days from when we returned from Hawaii. As soon as we returned from our vacation our lives have gone into a vortex, and now it is December...well...in 2 days it will be December. Speaking about that vortex...I can tell you that many things have transpired. But, at one point I was feeling so torn between my home country and this new country I could not tell you where I felt like home, was home. It is really a whole new thought process. Waiting, waiting, and waiting for INZ ( Immigration New Zealand) to let us know if our Residency Process would be accepted. If you are like me...you just want to know...but...they make you wait. And, so we have.

Rob has been so busy I can not even begin to remember where he has been or what he is doing! Sometimes I am amazed that we are home together...enjoying a dinner alone. I have just finished volunteering at the Ficino School as a reading tutor for Year 2 students. And, as soon as the school volunteerism has faded, a new volunteer project has surfaced. I have recently been inducted into Tourism Auckland's program called 'Wise Guides'. So, I am working to promote tourism in Auckland by directing tourists to experences here in the Auckland area. So, once or twice a week I go out onto the streets of the Central Business District (CBD) and hopefully help the confused tourists as they try to sort out what they want to do for the day.

I am also spending every Friday on the amazing Island, Tiritiri Matangi Island, giving guided walks to tourists and school groups. This Island is full of rare birds and amazing plants. As soon as the guided walk is over, I have the remainder of my day to walk about the Island on my own. In October, I was asked to help out a DOC Ranger in releasing a very rare bird onto the Island. It was a truly amazing moment in my life! I was able to help release a very rare bird...the Kokako. It was such an exciting moment...to see a bird that was being translocated from a very familiar setting to a very new setting. I keep going back to bush # 21 to see if I can spot my Kokako friend...but I have not been successful. One day, recently, we arrived back at the ferry to see that pod of dolphins was swimming around the ferry. As we left the Island, the dolphins rode our wake all the way to Gulf Harbour, where the Ferry stops to let the first guests off the Ferry. I have never experienced Dolphins jumping out in front of a boat, and delighting in the wake of the boat!! If only I had remembered my camera! Every Friday I give thanks to a higher power that I am able to be here on this Island that feels like a slice of Heaven in a world so full of stress. Being on Tiri is like a tonic to balance your life...

I have also hooked up with my tramping group...Women's Outdor Pursuits...WOPS. We have been hiking high and low, and then back low and high...ugh! I have even asked if we are in training for the Marine's!! However, last week I chose to meet up with the group that goes on the same day, but with a little less umph in their step. I kind of liked their pace...not so serious about being first to the top! I have had a hiatus from this group as the 3rd hike of the first session in February found me hard smacked on my bum, injuring my tailbone hugely. After 4 months of vigorous physio therapy, I was able to walk without extereme pain. Then it was Winter, and who in their right mind would sign up willingly to hike here? NOT ME!!! And then I came back to the USA for a month...and why would I sign up to walk with a group if I was going to miss 5 of the 8 weeks that the defines a term? So here came the Fall term, and I was finally able to join up again! We have been through some amazing bush...but as I stated before...WOPS really hikes!!

As I titled this post...Summer Is On It's Way...Finally we are having some weather that signifies Summer weather!! All of September, October and more that half of November have been very winter-like, full of rain, wind, and more rain & wind. There is really no Spring here...except for fleeting moments. December first will be the beginning of Summer...and I am looking forard to warm, beautiful weather for a few months.

And...now that Thanksgiving is over in the USA...the rest of the world is on super speed to Christmas...so Merry Christmas to all!! And..to all...peace.

xoxoxox, ~Skye

Hawaii 0910

2010-10-02T03:15:00.000-07:00

Goodbye SF!!

2010-10-02T03:11:00.000-07:00

California, Hawaii, and Back to NZ

2010-09-30T23:09:00.000-07:00

My long awaited trip back home to California came and went just like a whirlwind weather pattern. There was so much to do to prepare for being gone for a month...like move everything back into our apartment after having the carpet replaced. Throw into the mix a huge rotten hole in the floor that had spread to the wall and the joists...just a little bit of drama on this end to get to the point of packing for my month long journey. Amazing miracles happened, and the tradesmen that were scheduled to complete the job, showed up, and I was able to move our possesions back into our little nest above the Auckland Harbour. Then I had to quickly pack before Rob dropped me off at the ferry building. I had no idea what to pack...but I managed to pack an empty duffel bag into my suitcase so I could bring back all sorts of treasures from the USA. One thing I do know...it is very expensive to shop in NZ...they do not have discount stores here, or if they do, I have not found them.

Rob came home early to take me to the ferry building, as it was raining sideways, and a usual 5 minute walk to the ferry would have seen me drenched like a wet rat. I convinced him that the smartest way to get to the airport would be for me to take the Airbus, as they can utilize the bus lane during the commute hours. Rob would have been in the car for hours if he would have driven me...literally. We have had the experience of trying to get to the airport at that time before, and with heavy rain, it could have been a complete nightmare. So off on the ferry, and then right outside the ferry building, the bus. I arrived at AKL with plenty of time to check in and get sorted through two very high security check points. Not fun going to the USA anymore...they really doublecheck everything, and I must fit some profile that needs to be scrutinized. You really want to say "are you kidding me?'...but that is not what you do...you do what they ask...empty your carry on, empty your purse, let them check you for explosives...ugh...it gets really tedious. Finally, I was through, and all of a sudden it was time to board. On to the plane to be like a sardine for the next 13-14 hours...oh joy! NZ is too far away for me to get excited about flying...a 3 hour flight is lovely...but that doesn't get you anywhere but above the ocean.

Surprisingly, we landed earlier that the scheduled time. My sister, Anne was due to collect me & then we were to meet up with Ross at his cottage in Alameda. I finally got through customs, and scanned the crowd over and over again, to see if I could find Anne. Just like looking for Waldo...Hmmmn...no sighting of Anne, and I had no cell phone. Have you recently needed to use a pay phone in this modern age? Well...good luck...it is close to impossible to find a working pay phone. And, once you do, get ready to be robbed of all your coins...cha ching! Thank you, Ma Bell! Through a number of calls on said phone, I finally contacted Anne, and changed our meeting place to the outside arrival area. What entertainment! I have never witnessed such a stressed out traffic officer in all my life. His face was purple-red as he shouted in his bull horn to innocent drivers who were picking up their loved ones. At one point I thought the little hair he had on his head might blow off...eek! I could not imagine having him come home to me everynight. He wrote 6 tickets in the space of 20 minutes. Talk about a heart attack waiting to happen! Coming from slow, mellow, little NZ this experience was like being put in a stress pot! Man was I ever glad to get out of there!

Anne picked me up, and I jumped quickly into her car to escape that madness. We had a nice visit as we drove toward Ross' place across the Bay Bridge. More stress when some very rageful driver decided that Anne had cut him off when she changed lanes. It got a little hairy there for a while, and thankfully that carload of raging men turned off on another street. I was actually thinking horrible things could have happened to us...and I am so grateful that their car went another route.

Finally, we were at Ross' cottage. What a darling little cottage it was...and what a great big hug I got from my son! I knew that I needed to stay awake, so I could get on the CA time zone, but I wanted to lay down and crash into dreamland so badly. Anne decided to get out of the East Bay before the traffic got worse, so off she went. Ross & I had a lovely walk around the Marina near his place, and then he took me to his office to show me his workplace. Later on, we met up with Kev, Roz, Amber & Pete and I got my wish for Mexican Food!! What a great visit we all had! Thanks to Kev, Roz, Amber & Pete for coming out to Alameda.

I think I slept like a brick that night...I was so exhausted! Leaving on a Friday evening from Auckland, and arriving in SF earlier than you left on the same day...and then staying up until 11:30 with the youngsters...enough said. 7 am Saturday morning, and I was as good as new! Off to Sacramento with Ross to meet up with Christopher & Emily. We had a lot on our adgenda for the weekend. Lots of good stuff! It was so great to be back with our kids! It might sounds so great to you all that we are way far away here in NZ...sounds like we are on holiday or something...but what you might not realize is...we miss our kids heaps. So...to have time with them is truly a gift. There is this very special electricity in the air when we are all together.

Saturday, the four of us did some bargain shopping, as I had packed my empty duffel bag in my luggage to be filled to take back to AKL. I had also done some catalog shopping, and had it delivered to Emmy & Chris'. We did some more shopping, and then it was...more mexican food for lunch. :) We really do not have mexican food in Auckland, so I was in heaven. I think I could eat mexican food every day...fish tacos...chile rellanos...YUM!! The boys were not interested in looking for mother of the bride dresses, so Emmy & I dropped them off back at the house. We only got to Macy's to try on possible dresses...what fun we had!! We were hysterical in that dressing room! We laughed ourselves to tears. Obviously...we did not find anything suitable...however, we did narrow the field of what did not work for me. Hmmmmmnnn. There were heaps on that list.

That night, we had a great BBQ at Chris & Emmy's. Got to meet some of the bride's maids, and the kids cooked a great dinner. Had fun getting to know Tracy & Leanna, and then drove to the Sac Airport with Emmy to pick up her friend Megan at 11 pm. It felt like I was back in time driving the girls to soccer games...except that I was not driving...I was in the backseat listening to them. Two beautiful young women...friends from childhood...bubbling on about life. That was precious! Another late night, and I felt one with the futon that I had to sleep on.

Sunday...what a special day for sure! Chris' parents came up to Sacramento with his sister, Sharna, and her adorable son, Jackson. Chris' friend Josh also came along to help with the truck. The boys were going to work on Chris' truck, and the girls were going to see some dresses Emily had selected. We had an appointment at the wedding dress shop, and Emmy had the most amazing lady assisting her. Emily had been out with some of her bridesmaids & Denise, Christopher's mother, to try on dresses rior to my arrival in California. I had seen many photos of Emmy in all sorts of dresses. We were really looking to see if the 'one' was really the 'one'. It certainly was!! It was one of those moments that you get when goosebumps and tears (happy) rifle through your entire being. Both Denise & I were awestruck...this dress fit Emmy like it was meant to be! Jackson, who will be the ring bearer whispered to Emmy that she was beautiful, and she looked like a princess. When Emmy changed out of the dress and back into her clothes, he exclaimed, " Auntie Em, you're not a princess anymore!" It was pretty precious to hear that...but what was more amazing was to share that moment with Emmy. Got to check that off the list of to do's for the wedding. It was truly a special time!

Both Denise & I had a poke around the wedding shop for dresses...but we both decided to wait to purchase until closer to the date. And....wedding shop + mother of the bride/groom dresses = expensive. Better to go to a nice department store and find something you might get to wear again. I have never seen so many beaded, sequined dresses in my life. Somehow that style does not appeal to my body type. So the hunt goes on.

Sunday afternoon, Ross, Megan & I left Sacramento for Sonoma...well, actually Cordelia Junction. My friend, Anne drove to Cordelia and met us...Ross carried on to Alameda, and Megan & I went on to Sonoma with Anne. We dropped Meg off at her parent's house, and Anne & I went on to her little place. Anne & I gabbed on and on until the wee hours, before we both just had to get some sleep. Anne left for work on Monday, and I set off to do as much business as I could get done with just a short amount of time in Sonoma. All sorts of things from meeting with banker's to insurance people, to partners in investments...and try to meet up with as many family and friends as possible before Friday when more wedding planning appointments were set. What a week it was! Obviously not enough time to see everyone...but for those of you who I did get to see, it was great fun!

I had a special time in SF with my mum and all of my sisters...again at a mexican restaurant in the Embarcadero. Wow, Alicia, that was an awesome place for our get together! And, I was fortunate to have arranged a reunion among some childhood girlfriends in Sausalito. It was like we were back in Inverness running around the town, building cool forts, and telling each other our deepest secrets. It was such a heartwarming time, and I am ever so grateful to Brahna, Nichola, Lisa, Kelly, Cece & little Beau. What a great time to keep in my memory bank! I also had a great time at the Sonoma Farmer's Market...but yeeesh! It could have been a little cooler! All too soon, that week was over, and I was at SFO picking up Rob and our NZ mates, Chris & Janine. The next day, Rob & I had more meetings and signings and stuff to deal with in person. We had an amazing dinner at Mary & Greg's with Mickey,Gemma & Siena and the next morning we were on a plane headed for Kauai.

Vacation at last! We had organized with our dear friends, Jerry & Paula that we would stay with them at their timeshare for a few days, and then they would stay at our timeshare for the end of their stay after our kids went back to the mainland. So...at 6 am we left Glen Ellen and started our vacation journey. We had a big surprise at SFO when Robs sister, Amy showed up on the same flight. So...now there were 5 of us starting off...and 3 days later Ross, Emmy & Chris flew over. We had some magical times together! We had some amazing hikes, snorkeling, swimming with sea turtles, relaxing on the beach, walking, exploring new areas,cooking, bbqing, playing dice, and mai tais at sunset. Actually...Mai tais are only good in Hawaii...they just don't taste right anywhere else I have ever been. The day the kids left I tried so hard to be stoic...but as Ross put it..."Here come the tear bombs"...it was a very painful time. I really do not like goodbyes. Just reflecting on our time in Hawaii makes me wish more of life was slow and sweet like Hawaii.

On the 20th of September we landed in Auckland at 5 am. The weather was anything but balmy and tropical! Winds were gailing, and rain was lashing down, and it was cold! I had to put clothes on for the first time in weeks! In Hawaii, I only wore a swimsuit & shorts for most of the time. All the holiday clothes went back to the closet. Rob had a short nap, and off he went to work. He had a busy week back, and then back to the USA for him on Sunday, as he is currently attending an electrical segment leadership meeting in Wisconsin. I left on Saturday morning for a program on Tiritiri Matangi for the weekend, and stayed on at the Island volunteering as a guide. It was thankfully a good weather weekend. And...I saw a little, brown spotted Kiwi for the first time ever!! This week has been a continuation of catch up with business/investment affairs, and I am looking forward to Sunday once again, when I can get back to the Island for more incredible bird sightings and peaceful hiking. Tiritiri is a place like I imagine heaven to be. Robbie will be back in NZ on Tuesday morning at o'dark hundred, and I plan to pick him up at AKL. Hopefully, the roads won't be closed for road works this time...detours at 4:30 in the morning are a bit of a pain!

Weather tomorrow is meant to be gorgeous! We are in the middle of spring, and hopefully the wet, grey, windy weather will blow off! Missing those Sonoma Fall days!
thanks again to everyone who I was able to see when I was home! Cheers!

PS...It was also soooo great to meet our great neice, Jasmine! What a dolly! :)

Sydney!

2010-08-07T13:08:00.000-07:00

Australia!

2010-08-07T11:00:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I got a call from Rob. He was making final plans for a business trip to Sydney. He asked if i wanted to go along and explore Sydney while he was at the Boat Show. I don't normally accompany him on his business trips because boat shows start in the morning, and then the guys are always out late with vendors and customers until way past my pillow time. However, when he mentioned Sydney, I was all over going, as we had met some very fun people on our Milford Track trek last December who hailed from Sydney. A quick call to Galini and Charles to confirm that they would be available to get together was all it took for m to get online and book my ticket. Also...I had never been to Australia, and the relatively short flight across the ditch seemed much more appealing than the long haul it is when we go back to the states.
So what is it about leaving to go on a trip...why am I always up later than the stars to make sure everything is in order? One good way to make sure the house gets cleaned...plan a trip. We left Devonport at a respectable time thinking that we would miss the morning commute...we must not have gotten the memo from theroadworks that they had closed down two of the four lanes on the Harbour Bridge and were mucking up traffic all the way through Victoria Park. So...a slow start to get out to the airport.After parking out as far away from the airport as we could find, Rob mentioned that he hoped it wouldn't be raining when we got back late on Sunday night. Hmmmn...well it is winter, and it does do that thing called rain...
The flight was easy as...I nodded off with my head rolling around...wish I would have brought my trusty flight pillow...it keeps my neck from strain. The landing was a bit rough as we reached Sydney...the rain was bucketing here. It was hard to make out much on the way from the airport as the taxi was so steamed up from the condensation on our wet clothes. We shared a taxi with two guys that work with Rob, and off we were to Darling Harbour. Our hotel was located just three block from the Convention Center so it was a quick walk for Rob to the show.
Thursday morning I woke up early and made my way down to the gym...and the pool! They had a salt water pool, and I was thrilled. It could have been longer, but hey, I was not complaining. Swimming in a salt water pool is such a gift to me. I get the opportunity in Auckland every so often to join my girlfriend, Beth, in the salt water pool in her apartment building.Lucky me! After my swim and workout in the small gym, I joined Rob for breakfast and a cuppa. Cuppa = tea/coffee. Then I walked him down to the Convention Center and bid him a good day. Now I was off on my own, exploring the city. My goal for the morning was to walk to the Sydney Opera House, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Galini was trying to convince me that I must do the walk over the bridge...it looked a little too high for my noodle knees, so I just enjoyed the view from underneath. I wove my way through the hustle and bustle on the streets. This city is huge in comparisson to little Auckland. There were masses of people on every street...I had to walk strategically along the street to avoid being bumped into. Finally, I made it to Circular Quay and had my first sight of the brige and the Opera House. The Ferry Wharf was there along with the train station, and a huge bus terminal. Great public transport here! The weather was actually quite nice as it was not raining...overcast, but a pleasant temperature. I had made plans to meet up with my friend Jeanette back at the hotel, so I started heading back in that direction. Good thing I had my reading glasses and a map...just a map would have been impossible for me. My eyes can not read the fine print anymore without my powerful lenses. Scary. It took a while for me to connect with Jeanette due to cell phone failures, but eventually we met in Darling Harbour. Jeanette had discovered the Monorail, and had purchased a day pass. She wanted to take the Monorail to a special market called Paddy's Market. I was game, so off to the Monorail we went. Paid for a ticket, got on, and waited, and waited and waited. Finally the ticket agent came to our car, and told us that due to someone who was about to jump off a bridge near the Monorail line, the Monorail could not proceed until the police had cleared the area. Hmmmn...so now I had a Monorail ticket, and if I wanted a refund I would have to stand in a long queque. We decided to walk to this market. We arrived around 4:45, and Jeanette found the things she was looking for. There were aisles and aisles of the same sort of things...just different vendors...and it was all very cheap. I am not much of a shopper, so i was just fine when the doors closed at 5pm. We had an hour to kill before Galini & Charles were going to meet us at the hotel...so we decided to ride the Monorail, as the earlier problem had been sussed out. Not sure if the jumper jumped, but the Monorail was running. So we went around the whole track thattook us through the Sydney CBD. We barely made it back to the hotel before meeting up with our mates from OZ.
It was so great to meet up again with Charles an Galini! It was like we were on the Milford track again...literally, as it was raining once again. Brought back some fond memories of the real meaning of being wet...as in saturated. Now, we had the locals taking us out...and boy were we lucky! They took us to lovely Chinese restaurant called the Golden Century. I have not had any Chinese food here in NZ, as it tends to react badly with my stomach. this food was beautiful, and fresh! The company was the best as well, and after dinner, Charles took us on a tour of Chinatown. We parted around 9pm, as Jeanette and her partner, Chris were heading out to Vietnam early the next day. I was set up to meet Galini the next day for a tour of Bondi Beach to Coogie Bay.
Friday morning was gorgeous weather...at least there was a little blue sky peeking through the clouds. Rob was able to work until the afternoon, and come along with me & Galini for a tour of the bays/beaches outside of the central city. It was a great tour of Watson's bay, Bondi, Bronte, Coogie Bay, and other bays and beaches. We were hoping to walk this stretch as it is well known for it's footpath, but Galini was not able to join us as she was recovering from knee surgery. Oh, how I know that pain! We thought we would makle it back out that way before we left on Sunday, but there were other things to see and do. We met up with Charles and his partner, Grant back at the hotel, and then headed off to North Sydney for dinner. It was such a gorgeous night! We were at a restaurant right under the Harbour Bridge looking across to the Opera House with the city skyline behind it. Wow! What a colourful sight! The restaurant was also right next to a place called Luna Park...reminded me and Rob of the Santa Cruz Boardwalk...
Saturday morning we met up with Charles, and he gave us an amazing walking tour of historical buildings in Downtown Sydney. We went through the Queen Victoria Building that had thankfully been sved from demolition, and renovated beautifully. The Post Office was still original, with a modern Westin Hotel connected to it. He took us out to the Art Museum, and then we walked along the outside of the Botanical Gardens out to the Harbour, and the Opera House. We met Galini at the Opera Bar, and she took over the touring for the day as Charles had a birthday party to attend. Galini took us out to Manly, on the Manly Ferry, from Circular Quay. You can drive out to Manly, but it is much more beautiful to get there by ferry. Once we got to Manly, we found a really great spot to share some yummy pizza. It wasn't quite as good as The Red Grape, but it was the closest so far! We strolled out to Manly Beach and walked along the Esplanade. The ocean was flat as, and the light was changing from daylight to dusk. On the ferry back we were rewarded with a beautiful sunset behind the Harbour Bridge. When we got back to Circular Quay, we hopped on a bus out to Newtown to met up with Charles and Grant. Another great meal at an authentic Thai Restaurant with our great hosts, Charles, Galini and Grant. We capped off the evening strolling around Newtown, and stopping for an amazing raspberry sorbet.
Sunday we had to pack up and check out. Because our flight was not until 6:30pm, the hotel kept our luggage so we could go out and explore. We had come across St. Mary's Cathedral earlier in the week, so I decided to attend 7am mass there. It was a cool, crisp morning...and thankfully it was sunny again. As it was 7am, the Cathedral was not very full. It was quite peaceful and beautiful being there. Brought me back to the days of going to mass at the Grace Cathedral in San Francisco as a child. After mass I made my way back to the hotel to meet up with Rob. We packed, and checked out, and went off to find some hot coffee. Then, we walked to the Botanical Gardens. We had walked around the Botanical gardens with Charles, but I wanted to go inside and have a look around. we were on a path in the Australian Rainforest part of the park when we heard this shrieking sound. When we looked up, there were heaps of bats hanging upside down in the tree above us. We thought that was a rarity...but very soon we would see tree loads of them. They were fruit bats, and it appeared that there was some mating going on...baby fruit bats on the way! When you look at the photos, I have included a photo of the bats in one of the trees. The plants/flowers in the gardens were all so gorgeous! Rob got some nice shots. We had a nice picnic looking out to the Harbour, and then we walked, and walked, and walked along the waterfront all the way back to Darling Harbour. We met up again with Galini, who kindly drove us out to the airport. As it was...we could have been late to the airport because our flight came into Sydney from Auckland late. Then the weather mucked everything up, and by the time we were on the plane, the pilot informed us that they would only be using one runway, so we were 20th in the queque. Another hour on the tarmack...and then I think we got off the ground. And...just like Rob had predicted...we were met with hosing down rain when we got out of customs. Needless to say, we were very, very wet by the time we searched out the parking lot for the car. Another fogged up trip home...and on the pillow by 2:30am. That alarm clock was not welcome on Monday morning!
Well...it is now Sunday, and we are seeing some sun today, so I must sign off and sieze the sunny moment! Cheers to you all!! :)

The Immigration Process and Other Things...

2010-07-23T00:08:00.000-07:00

It is August...and our Visa's are due to expire in October. In order to extend our Visa we must convince the NZ Immigration officials that we are not felons from the USA, that we are upstanding citizens, that Rob & I have a genuine and loving relationship, and a heap of other documents that attest who we are , and our intentions for beng here, in NZ. It is quite an exasperating experience. And today...I have achieved completing all of the documents. YAHOOO!!! And...by all of the documents,I mean more paperwork than I can imagine. It almost makes us want to just apply for an extension to our Visas...but then it will have to be done again, and quite frankly, we are so over this kind of processing for the 2nd time. It is like having someone attached to you at all times making sure you live properly, and you would make a good Kiwi...er... citizen. I actually take this process very seriously, and I find it very difficult to go through. Like being under a hypersensitive microscope.

You should have been at my medical interview...when the doctor asked me if I exercised...I asked her.."what time of day are we talking?" I do not have a car...I walk everywhere I need to be, unless it involves a ferry or a bus. I swim, cycle, walk and go to the gym on a regular basis. Rob & I tramp almost every weekend to destinations that are very physically challenging. Most of the time I can not believe that I am crossing rushing rivers without being drawn downstream, and tramping on with wet boots...not complaining. You just do it...you know...just do it??...the Nike jingle. I think all the Kiwi's have the 'Just Do It' attitude as they are constantly out in the bucketing rain getting in their compulsory 10K's. Even the grandmas are out there!! No whimping out in the rain! The point is...although I may not be a skinny minny...I am very fit and able to conquer physical challenges. It just ires me to the core when I am under the microscope!!
Oh dear...you could really get me going here...

Last week I was scheduled to go out to Tiritiri Matangi Island to do my volunteer guiding that I do every week. Well...Thursday night there was this crazy, intense storm, and I thought for sure they would call off the trip out to the Island. However, when I called the hotline to see if we were going or not...we were scheduled to go. So, off to Auckland City on the Ferry I went. By the time I reached Auckland City, the rain was so heavy that I was seriously questioning why we would be going out on the sea to Tiri. There were only a handful of passengers that had signed up for a guided walk, and 5 guides. Thank goodness that I had packed all of my 'what if' kind of clothing and accessories. It was a full on hosing as we reached the Island, and with trepidition, we left the warmth and dryness of the ferry. We were assigned our groups and off we went. It so happens that there was a bird afficionado in my group, and she was very anxious to see a rare and endangered bird ... the Kokako. There must have been a God out there as we took off from the wharf...because in 2 minutes, there they were...2 Kokako munching on seeds from a Kowhai tree. I could not have planned this tour any better as we managed to see almost every rare and endangered bird on the Island. Only the nocturnal birds were not viewed. Needless to say, she was quite pleased with the tour that I provided. Thankfully, all of the others in the group were estatic to see all of the birds we saw as well. They have always touted that the best time to really see all the birds is in the Winter. However, we did arrive at the visitor's center completly saturated. I was secretly wishing that there was a hot shower and clean, dry clothes...but that would have meant that I was a complainer...and here in Kiwiville...you nevah compain! Just so you know that I am being toughened up here!

So...if you didn't get the fact that the seasons are all jumbled up here...I really mean in my head...we are in the heart of Winter. It is so strange to be having Winter in June, July & August while you all are basking in the summer sun...and some of you are broiling in high temperatures. I am not sure when it will be normal for me to celebrate Christmas in the Summer...or have my June birthday in the Winter. Aaakkk! Too hard for me to compute.

On a brighter note...Rob & I continue to explore the Auckland area, and have recently discovered a goldmine of tramping trails in the Waitakere Ranges. We had a very brisk, and spectacular tramp out at Fairy Falls a few weeks ago. Then we went back to a favorite spot on the East Coast for a cliff walk along the Hauraki Gulf, and last weekend we discovered a new area across the Waitemata Harbour in Glendowie, at a reserve close to some friend's house. So...within one hour of our home, we are able to access so many amazing places. This is truly a place of wonder.

Even though we are cold and shivvering wet...I hope you are all warm and enjoying your Summer.

xoxox, ~~Skye

PS Thank you so much to Mandi...your card brought tears to my eyes...you are right...although we are separated by a huge ocean...we are very close in heart. Thank you, my friend, for putting that in words. :)

Tongariro National Park June 2010

2010-06-16T19:22:00.000-07:00

Tongariro National Park

2010-06-16T19:03:00.000-07:00

Vacation in Central North Island

Friday, June 4, 2010 Rob & packed up our little car and set off for the Central North Island to Turangi, a very small town at the southern end of Lake Taupo. We had a timeshare week that needed to be used, or it would expire, so we booked the only available unit in the whole of New Zealand. We had previously been to Lake Taupo, and once through Turangi on our way to Mt. Ruapehu. Turangi is the trout fishing capital of the world…or at least that what it says on the town’s welcome sign. So, Friday, we drove and drove and drove…our start was very slow through the horrible Auckland traffic, caused by road works on SH1, down Hwy 2 through the Waikato, stopping at KaiMai Cheese factory in a town we could not pronounce, along a short bit of SH1, then cut over to Hwy 32, and around the western side of Lake Taupo. We had amazing, clear, sunny, weather the whole way.

We found the Turangi Leisure Lodge right around 4:30, and were greeted by our very hospitable host, Lois. She made sure we would be at “The Get Together”, on Saturday morning between 9 & 10 to meet the other guests and hear all about the varied activities available. It was a complimentary “sausage sizzle”, which is a very kiwi thing to go to. As promised, we arrived at the “sausage sizzle” just as she was introducing the various guides from the area. There was a fellow who would take you fly fishing in the morning, and golfing in the afternoon…a river rafting outfit that also hired out mountain bikes…a guided walk company that had various walks to offer, complete with pick up/drop off and lunch… a pilot with Mountain Air that flew scenic flights over Mt. Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe, and Mt. Tongariro, and …a healing massage therapist. It was actually the best welcome meeting we had ever attended…perhaps because we missed the first bit about how we too could own this timeshare…

At the local i-site (information site) we were able to see the live web cam of the mountains, and although it was thick fog in Turangi, the mountains were clear as. We decided to check out the Mt. Air scenic flight as well as do a tramp to Taranaki Falls, just past the Whakapapa Visitors Center on Mt. Ruapehu. It was so beautiful when we arrived, and the mountains were visible, so we decided on taking the flight first. Our pilot, James, gave us a complete history of all three volcanoes, and was very excited to show us where some of the filming of the Lord of the Rings took place. I have to say I was surprisingly calm on this flight until it was time to land and it looked like we were headed straight for a fence before the grassy landing strip. Funny how your heart feels as if it is going to explode at times like that. Unbelievably…I remained silent, and Rob had no clue how terrified I was…but it took my heart a few minutes to get back down to a normal beat. Overall…minus the landing part, it was a spectacular flight, and Rob got heaps of photos.

Our next adventure was pretty tame in comparison…a two hour tramp to Taranaki Falls. Even though it was sunny out, it did not mean that it was warm…I think when we started it was only 4 degrees. Eventually, we began to feel warm as we climbed up and down through bush and shrubs toward the falls. It was a lovely loop trail that gave us the feeling like we had done a few hours of exercise for the day.

We were very happy that we took advantage of Saturday’s nice weather, because Saturday night a big, bad storm blew in and rained buckets over our little chalet roof. One thing we have learnt from the Kiwis…you never let a little rain keep you from your activities…so we ventured out to the National Trout Center and walked around the grounds there. The Trout Center was having a kids fishing contest, where guides were teaching kids, aged from 6-12, to fly fish and catch a trout. It was pouring rain, and the kids were having the best time…so proud of the trout that they caught. The funniest thing was watching the kids try to whack the fish on the head…the guide would tell them to give it a good whack, and the kid would give it a tap on the head. Finally, after 3 or 4 attempts, the kid would give it a good whack, and the fish would quit flopping.

The rain was not going to stop, so we decided that we would explore the Turangi area, and venture out in the elements to walk the Tongariro River Walk. We were able to leave our car at our chalet and head off to find the starting point. We started up near the Bridge Pool, climbed up the cliff side, and eventually came down again alongside the river. We were planning to go further than the Major Jones Bridge, but we were both soaked, and decided a nice, warm, hot tub sounded better than getting any wetter and colder. All along the river there were heaps of fishermen wading in the river fly fishing, even though it was freezing cold and wet, Rob told me that their waders are insulated and they stay warm. He really wanted me to hire a guide and have a lesson in fly fishing. Although, it looked like such a Zen-like activity, I was not so sure about how warm I would have been. And, I was not sure about having to release a flopping fish off of hook. The hot tub sure was nice!

On Monday, we decided to stay close to Turangi again as the weather was so yuck again. We decided on a tramping spot called Lake Rotopounamu aka Greenstone Lake. However, by the time we got to the car park it was hosing down rain. Hmmmn…change of plans as there was a possibility of some clearing in the afternoon. So, plan B was to drive north to Lake Taupo. We thought it might be nice to poke around the shops and maybe grab a warm lunch. Taupo was quite crowded, and shopping was not actually what we wanted to do. Back to our little car to return to our tramping spot at Lake Rotopounamu. Rob had thoughtfully packed a delicious picnic, and we pulled off to a beautiful pull out looking over Lake Taupo. There was still a few hours of daylight left when we returned to the trailhead for Lake Rotopounamu, to give this tramp a go. As soon as we left the car park we were in dense, green bush. It took about 20 minutes to get up the hill to the track that circled the lake. The sun filtered through the bush at times, and the colors were amazing! So many shades of green on this hike! It took us about an hour and a half with a pretty good pace to complete the track. Luckily for us…we reached the car just as another downpour started.

Another shabby weather day on Tuesday…we decided to do a drive that circled the National Park, starting here, in Turangi and going south to Ohakune. The main highway, SH1, was closed when we left Turangi, so we weren’t sure if we could actually complete the circle. The mountains were completely under clouds as we passed the western side of the park. As we got closer to Ohakune we had a few rays of sun, and the rain had stopped. Here, we decided to do a few walks as they were not terribly long. Just enough of a stretch to make it easier to get back in the car for the return trip. And, by the time we had reached Ohakune they had opened up SH1 so we could complete our circle. So we did the Rimu walk, and the Mangawhero Forest walk. Again…two tracks that are set in the dense bush, and were both so enchanting. Seriously…the colors of green were amazing! On our drive back, we got into some heavy snow on the pass… ZER0 degrees and blustery as ever up there. BRRR!

Wednesday we drove back up to the mountain for another tramp that we had read about in our tramping guide. We decided to do the Silica Rapids walk as it was only a two hour hike. We encountered quite a bit of snow on the track, and powered through some very windy areas. It was zero degrees as we set off from the Whakapapa Visitor’s Center. BRRRR! The color contrasts on this hike were so amazing! Bright blue sky, snow white mountains, green, green bush, red, iron stones in the river, and yellowish/white striations in the river bed where the silica rapids were. There were a few dicey…I mean icy spots on the track, but I managed to make it all the way without slipping and causing injury. The only downfall to this tramp was that you had to walk out the last 2.5 kilometers on the road, going back down to the visitor’s center. We had an amazing view of Mt. Ngauruhoe as we ate our lunch in our toasty warm car.

Thursday morning we decided that we would begin to make our way back north as neither of us wanted to get stuck in Friday afternoon Auckland traffic. We also had heard that the weather was going to be back to winter conditions in the afternoon. Before we packed up our chalet, we went out to Lake Rotopounamu once again for another look at that beautiful lake. We were actually the only people on the track…birds were singing, the lake was like a mirror, and the bush was magnificent! Our long drive home began at around 2pm…went to Raglan thinking we would stay there for the night, and decided that 2 more hours were not too far to go for our own bed. So, another fantastic trip to a beautiful area! Next time maybe I will hire a guide to learn the art of Fly Fishing!

I am hoping to attach pictures to this blog…but I may need to send the link separately. Sending heaps of hugs to you all!

Being Sick...

2010-04-12T16:51:00.000-07:00

On April 1, 2010 I set out for my volunteer job at Tiritiri Matangi Island. The water was like glass on the harbour as we left Auckland City for the trip to Gulf Harbour and then Tiritiri. As a guide, everytime I visit the Island I experience so many new and different things.It is amazing how much I have learned just on observation alone. This day, there were too many guides, and I was asked to buddy up with another guide who had a rather large group. A perfect scenario for me, as I was keen to hear about this guides perspective, and learn a few tips from him. We took the longer track (the Kawerau Track) with our group. The tide was high, water was clear, but there was a briskness to the air. I felt a bit chilly, so I pulled my sweatshirt on, and then my wind jacket. About half way through the walk I felt an intense pain in my head shoot through just like a spear. I wasn't quite sure what was going on, but now I was also hot as ever...could it be those hot flashes? I am not one to get headaches..but this pain just kept getting worse. Luckily I had some tylenol, so I popped a few with some water, and continued on thinking I was just fine. But...I was not. By the time I got to the Lighthouse where we excuse the visitors to do their own exploring, I was shivering, and the pain was getting worse.
I decided to take a very slow walk back to where we meet the boat, resting along the way, drinking more water, taking more tylenol. I did see some amazing bird action as I sat on the benches along the way. By the time I made it to the boat, they were boarding, so I took my seat. Unfortunately, The wind had come up in the Gulf, and the water was not at all calm for the ride home. I have gotten better everytime I venture out on a long boat ride, but this ride home was less than smooth. As we departed the ferry in Auckland City, I had to catch another ferry to Devonport. My feet felt like lead, but I made it to the right pier just in time. I am always doing the 'ferry run' so it felt good that I didn't have to run this time. Sometimes...they pull away just as you get to the gate...and I wasn't going to have that happen. By the time I got home I was completely out of it. Rob called and said he was needing to work late on a project with one of his employees. That gave me time to take a shower, and try to lay down. Thankfully, I had already made dinner, so I could lay down. My head hit the pillow, and 4 days later I finally woke without a throbbing headache, and achy muscles. I thought I was over this thing...but Monday night came, and the headache came back only worse, and now a very harsh cough came along. The cough kept getting worse, and the more I coughed the worse my head felt...not a good way to spend your days. Finally, after 12 days of this ridiculous nonesense I went to the doctor. She determined that I started out with a flu bug...still waiting to determine if it was the H1N1 virus as she took all sorts of blood. But then I got a secondary infection in my lungs. Lucky me...I think Rob should get a medal for having to listen to me hack my lungs out all night long. Neither of us is sleeping very well. I am now taking an antibiotic that I hope blows this crud out of me. The only reason to share this with you is...if you get that nasty headache...go to your doctor...do not wait as long as I did. I have been quarantined for too long...and I pray to the gods that Rob stears clear of this nasty virus. And now the big rains are due tomorrow... :( Bugger!

Another Season has Come to Auckland

2010-04-01T20:20:00.000-07:00

Days are getting shorter, and infact the time is changing at midnight on Saturday...so the dark days of Fall/Winter will begin. It is so hard to believe that Summer just roared past, and Easter is in just a few short days. I have completed my training at Tiritiri Matangi Island and now I lead walks on the Island once a week, sharing this very special place with people from all over the globe. It is such a rewarding volunteer position to hold. Everytime I see and learn new things, meet extraordinary people, and have a truly fantastic experience. (Well...one time I had a rough group of 15-16 year old girls who did not want to be there...but that was only once).

I am also volunteering at our neighbor, Margaret's school as a reading tutor for her year 2 students. I ride the ferry and then a bus out to Mt. Eden every Monday, and spend the morning working with small groups of students. I have had to learn a different pronunciation of the vowels...not allowed to teach them the American way. Hmmmn...I have to constantly practice this new way with words.The kids are really precious, and I enjoy spending my time with them.

Our very good friend, Anne and her partner Ed have visited since I last wrote. I picked them up at AKL at 5:20 am on Friday, March 26th. We had a nice walk about Devonport after we unloaded their luggage. They napped for a wee bit, and then Rob, Anne, Ed & me took the ferry over to the city to have a nice lunch at the Viaduct Basin. It was early to bed for all of us as they were needing sleep to catch up from the jet lag, and I was needing sleep to catch up from getting up so early. Going to the airport at such a early, dark time for the second time in a row was a challenge as there was yet another detour that I encountered. Luckily, I followed a taxi as I thought surely he would lead me out of this maze and to the proper route...it paid off. I can not wait for the road detours to the airport to stop!

Saturday, we got up and packed our car for a tiki tour of the Northland. We drove the scenic route to Paihia, stopping off in Mangawhai Heaeds and Lang's Beach before we arrived in Whangerei to pick up the keys to the bach we rented in Paihia. We had a lovely picnic at Whanerei Falls, and spent some time walking on the short track before getting back in the car for the final leg of our journey. We arrived in Paihia around 4:30...found the Crow's Nest, and were blown away by the views from our bach. (Bach = Cabin or Holiday Home).

We knew we wanted to get out on the water in the Bay of Islands on Sunday, but we hadn't a clue as to what kind of boat we wanted to take so off to the i-site (information booth) we went. We finally decided to do a 4 hour boat tour out to Hole in the Rock, that also stopped for an hour at an Island called Urupukapuka Island.We were guaranteed that we would also see dolphins. On Sunday morning the Bay of Islands was as smooth as a mirror, so we decided to take the boat ride in the morning, as calm waters generally are easier on those of us with sensitivity to sea sickness. It was such a pristine ride...and we did see dolphins!! We also saw heaps and heaps of fish out by hole in the Wall and the Cape Brett lighthouse. I don't know if we could have planned our trip any better!

After the boat ride we returned to Paihia and drove a short distance to Waitangi to see the Treaty of Waitangi, and look around the grounds and museum. It was all very impressive, however, it might have been better had we not been so exhausted from the boat ride...somewhere a nap was missed. Right...that is what I did during the 20 minute movie... :)And, I do not think I was the only one of us napping.

After the boys had a nap back at the bach, we caught the 6:00 Ferry over to Russell and walked around that tiny town before settling down for a beautiful dinner at Kamakura. Rob & I had been here with Ross & Emily when we took them to Russell after Christmas '08, so we knew this would be a great place to eat. The sun set over the water just as we were sitting down...no need for jackets as the weather was just perfect! It was just like Indian Summer back in Ca.

Monday we woke up, packed up our bags, and headed west to see the mighty Tane Mahuta. The largest known Kauri Tree in NZ. Wow!! It was so impressive...so huge! We also did a bush walk to see the grandfather tree, and the four sisters. The grandfather tree seemed bigger than Tane Mahuta...but only in girth. Tane Mahuta was taller. We drove, and we drove, and we drove, until we came to the Kauri Museum. Unfortunately, we needed 6-8 hours to really enjoy this museum, and we only had 1/2 an hour. It was incredible how much they had in that museum...amazing furniture, and amazing collections of the time period. Next time we will remember to allow more time to see this museum.

Before we arrived home to Devonport, Rob took a detour to show Anne and Ed the Mauhurangi Harbour. We had discovered this gorgeous piece of coastline after Christmas, and have made a few trips back to enjoy the gorgeous beach at Sullivan's Bay. As we arrived in Devonport, Rob took us up Mt. Victoria for an amazing view of the sunset.

Tuesday, Rob had to return to work, and Anne, Ed and I went off to Auckland City by ferry. We went to the top of the Sky Tower for some amazing views of the Auckland area. Anne & Ed were leaving on Wednesday, so they wanted to look around Auckland City & Devonport. We had a fantastic walk after dinner under the full moon out to Cheltenham Beach. It is so beautiful to walk here after dinner...and a special treat when it is clear and there is a full moon.

Wednesday morning...I sent Anne & Ed off on the ferry to catch the Airport Express bus, as they were flying to Queenstown for a little South Island adventure. Even though our visit was short...it was so great to have Anne and Ed stay with us. I'm gonna miss my friend tho...

So, today is Good Friday, and all businesses close as it is a major holiday here. Not even the grocery stores are open. Tomorrow stores will be open, and then closed again for Easter. We don't have any plans for Easter except to try to check out a west coast beach that we have never been to. Karekare Beach. Anne said it was the beach tha was filmed in the movie 'The Piano'...so maybe we'll rent the movie before we check out the beach.

Sunday there will be a five hour difference for us to the west coast of the US...so it will be harder to reach you by Skype...I'll just have to schedule my calls early in order to get through...Happy Easter to all of you!! I hope your Spring is gorgeous!

January...Chock Full of Visitors...

2010-02-17T19:44:00.000-08:00

After we returned from our Tiki Tour of the Northern most part of the North Island, we have had a flurry of visitors. Ross arrived in late December, and we took off to explore the Northern tip of the North Island. Cape Reinga was way out there, but really a beautiful place to see if you have never done so. We especially enjoyed the beach at Spirit's Bay. The sand had a pink hue to it, as there were absolutely heaps of pink shells that were ground down by the ocean to produce a very fine sand. We took note that there is a nice DOC (Dept. of Conservation) camping area there as well. Now that we have our tent & camp stove here we are planning some camping adventures. Just need to suss out some sleeping bags, and cooking equiptment to get rolling! Thanks to Amy for hauling our tent over when she came to visit!! Sorry about the delay through customs...forgot about all that biohazard checking.

On January 12, Rob's mom, Mickey, & his sister, Amy, came for a visit. We picked them up at AKL at o'dark thirty and took them on a little tour around Devonport. They both wanted to settle in a bit, so we dropped them off at the Peace and Plenty Inn, where they had made their booking. After settling, they joined us at our house, and we set out for lunch at a local restaurant that had recently opened near our house. Our visitors were still feeling a bit in need of rest, so we came back to our perch above the harbour and had a relaxing, restful afternoon.

Early mornings I had Amy, my best walking partner to walk around Devonport with. So, before anyone would even think of waking, we were out walking around the area, enjoying each other's company. One great thing about having your old friend come to visit...you can easily catch up to what ever is going on in each other's lives...like no time has passed. A special quality in our friendship that I treasure.

While Mickey, Amy & Ross were with us we adventured out to Muriwai Beach to see the Gannet colony, and do some wine tasting in the Kumeu Valley. We also took the ferry over to the city to celebrate Rob & Amy's birthdays at Mikano...a flash restaurant on the waterfront. It was one of those hot, humid days...not at all like the hot, dry, California weather we are used to. Humidity has a way of making you feel that there is no need to shower because you will need one ten minutes after you get out of it. Nevermind about trying to do anything with your hair! I guess that is what hats are for...limp hair days...Friday, we visited Tiritiri Matangi, an open bird sanctuary Island in the Hauraki Gulf. Again, it was humid, but we were rewarded with a most amazing swim at the end of our hike. The water was like the blue lagoon! Mickey was able to join us, as the Island ranger transported her up to the visitors center, and back down to the ferry at the end of the day. We packed a picnic, and joined Mickey for lunch before we set off to continue our hike.

On Saturday, the 16th Emmy & Chris arrived at the same o'dark hundred hour that the flight from SFO arrives at AKL. So...back to the airport we went to welcome Emmy & Chris. It was so fantastic to have them here! Hugs and hugs...and more hugs were had. Back in Devonport we went to breakfast at our favorite breakfast spot since it opened in December...Platters. We had a nice walk about Devonport, and then the inevitable crash down for a nap occurred for Chris & Emmy. I had an errand in Mairangi Bay to do, so I took Mickey on a little tour of the North Shore via East Coast Bays Rd. We picked up the portrait that our neighbor had drawn of Emmy & Ross, and went back to Devo to join the others who were getting ready to have a little beach time at Cheltenham Beach. Because Ross was leaving on Sunday, we decided to celebrate Rob & Amy's birthdays on Saturday night with the whole clan. A great celebration ensued, although it was baking hot in the restaurant.

Sunday was a lazy, slow day as Ross packed up his belonings. Rob loaded all of Ross' luggage into the car, and drove Mickey over to the city. Too many people to all go in the car, so Amy, Chris, Emmy, Ross & myself headed for the ferry. We met Rob & Mickey at the Sky Tower and had a farewell lunch for Ross. Kind of an emotional time...had some tears when it was time to say goodbye. Ross was heading back to California to move from Chico to Alameda where he has a job...and a new place to live! Rob & I are feeling so good that both Ross and Emily are doing well, and are happy.

Speaking of happy...the big news is that Christopher proposed to Emily at Tarwharanui Beach on Monday, January 18, 2010! It was a total surprise for Emily...but we knew he was planning on proposing as he had asked Rob for permission. So sweet of Chris to do that. I was sworn to secrecy that I could not breathe a word to anyone...and especially not Emily! So...I passed the keep a secret test...:) By now, of course you all know that this has happened, but I thought I would point it out again. We are delighted to welcome Christopher into our family!

On Rob's actual birthday, Chris, Emily, Rob & Amy took a trip south to go cave exploring at Green Glow Caves. They left Devonport before the sun came up, and made it to their destination around 8:30. They had a private tour of the Green Glow Caves which were close to Waitomo Caves. They spent the whole day rock climbing, abseiling, and exploring the depths of the caves. A great adventure was had by all! Amy & Rob drove back to Auckland, and Chris & Emily went off to Rotorua and the Coromandel Peninsula for a few days to do some exploring on their own. They were basking in the glow of their engagement.

Another trip to the airport on Wednesday to drop off Amy & Mickey. We could have been in the airport taxi sevice. Before we left for the airport we had a nice lunch with Mickey & Amy. Rob & I got home and it was sooo quiet. Emily & Chris were still on their tour, so we had a night alone.

Emily & Chris came back from the Coromandel just bubbling about all of their adventures on Thursday evening. Friday, we took Emmy & Chris to do the Okura Bush Walk, and to Long Bay Beach. And Saturday, we took a drive out to the Kumeu Valley for some wine tasting and walk out to see the gannet colony at Muriwai Beach. It was hard to believe that Sunday we had to say goodbye. We had a nice, quiet day around Devonport, packed up the car with the luggage and drove to the ferry building. Rob & I helped Emmy & Chris with their luggage on to the ferry, and got them sorted on the otherside with the Airbus. Driving on the motorway at 4pm on a Sunday afternoon to the airport was not going to be easy, so they agreed to take the express bus. Another difficult time saying goodbye...that is the hard part of living so far away.

So, now it is the middle of February and the pace of life has picked up around here. When we were on Tiritiri Matangi with Ross, Mickey & Amy, I signed up to become a volunteer guide on the Island. I have just completed my training, and have also had my first guided trip last Friday. I had 5 trainings with other guides throughout the past few weeks...and have I ever learned a lot about birds, flora and fauna! I have heaps more to learn...and as a fellow guide said to me yesterday...you continue to learn more and more...so the learning will continue on...as in life. I have also started volunteering as a reading tutor in our neighbor, Margaret's year 2 classroom. I work with reading groups...ages 6&7...soooo adorable! And, the term for the Women's Outdoor Pursuits has started again, so every Thursday I am out tramping with my WOPS group. Blink, blink and the week is done!

Rob & I adventured out to a new park on Sunday called Wenderholm Regional Park. There, we took a perimeter track, and another track through the bush. We had an outstanding view of the Islands around the Mauharangi Harbour. I will put links to picasa photo albums for all of the places I have mentioned. NZ really is spectacular, and for us to be able to find all of this beauty in our back yard is phenomenal! Looking forward to seeing Wayne & Annie Stewart next week, after they return from a tour of the South Island. And, at the end of March we have Anne Estes and her partner, Ed coming to see us. Yay!! Thinking of all of you, and wishing you all well! Cheers! <3 ~Skye

Christmas in Kiwi Land

2010-01-01T10:36:00.000-08:00

Since we returned from the Milford Track it has been all about Christmas here in the land of the Kiwi. Kiwi's take Christmas very seriously! Most business' shut down from the 24th of December through the 5th of January. The amount of boats leaving the harbour on December 23rd and days following create a massive parade of entertainment for us in our perch above the harbour. Rob & I had a very, very quiet Christmas as Ross & Emmy spent Christmas back home at their Aunt Sheila & Uncle Weez' this year.

We managed to borrow the BEP Christmas tree again...although this year the tree had a difficult time staying upright as one of the legs had been reconstructed to replaced the leg that mysteriously disappeared. After we set it up with all the decorations it just toppled over without warning, crashing into the window. It had a few other crashes along the way...this was the tree that only lasted four days. The night before Ross arrived, I decided that we really needed to take it down and let it rest for another year. Also, after Christmas we purchased a new tree for next year...50% off...so no more borrowing the BEP tree.

Christmas Eve we had our neighbors, Paul & Margaret for a very fun & festive celebration. They have been such generous, and fun hosts for Rob & me as we have gotten acclimated to the Kiwi lifestyle. Really...we are so blessed to have found this living situation. We even squeezed a friendly game of petanque in before dessert...Margaret ran away with the win. More petanque games will follow, as the weather is finally to the gorgeous state.

Rob & I have also finally done some swimming! The water is very cold at first...but so clear and amazing once you have gotten over the shock. Christmas day we spent at Torpedo Bay with our chairs and umbrella...cooling off with a swim when it got too hot. The sun is so intense here that you literally will fry if you do not protect yourself in the shade and with the proper level of sunscreen. On the radio you hear the announcer say "it's another day for slip, slap, slop"! Which translates to: slip on your jandals, slap on your hat, and slop on your sunscreen....kind of a cheeky way to remind people of the hole in the ozone here.

On Boxing Day we ferried over to the city to see what kind of deals we could find. Not many shops were even open, so it was not a lengthy shopping trip. Kind of a dud, in fact. We should have gone back to the beach.

Sunday, after Christmas, we decided to go for a tramp in the bush, as it would at least be in the shade. For some time we have been passing an area when we travel up north...Pohuehue Track. I have always wanted to stop and check this track out. Unfortunately, not all of the Kiwi's had gone off on holiday before Christmas, and as we got to the tunnel...traffic turned into a nightmare. Thankfully, the Pohuehue Track was not far past the tunnel. What a relief to be out of the traffic and into the bush! We took a loop track that passed a nice little waterfall. I say little, because the waterfalls we encountered on the Milford track were massive in comparison. The only thing we thought would make this track better would for it to be farther away from the road, and traffic noises. But, once you got deep into the track it was void of traffic sounds and quite pretty. We saw some plants that we had never seen before...hopefully I will get one of our friends to help me identify them.

On our way home we decided to take a tiki tour out to another area that we have passed along the motorway...Mahaurangi Regional Park. It was only 7 kms. off the motorway, so we made a go of it. The colors of the water were amazing blues and greens. Sailboats and motorboats dotted the harbour, and heaps of campers in tents lined the shore. The harbour was flat calm at the bay we parked at. It was an idyllic area to boat and camp. We will definitely return to this new found area!

The 28th of December we awoke at 4am to pick up Ross from AKL. He had had quite the travel time, as he had to return to Chico from the Bay Area to retrieve his passport before he got on the plane to NZ. Luckily, he realized this fact with enough time to make the journey to and from Chico. We had a walk about Devonport, Ross got settled...and then he crashed into his pillow for a nap. When Ross came back to life, we took him up to one of our favorite beaches...Long Bay. Long Bay was packed, but the tide was out and we ventured around to Grannie Bay where there were very few people. Again...the water was gorgeous so we found a nice, sandy entry into the water.

Our plan was to take a road trip up to Cape Reinga...the northern most point of NZ accessible by car. To break up the trip a bit, we stopped in at Langs Beach and stayed with our neighbors at a family bach. (Bach = Holiday Home). We turned off the northern motorway at Mangawhai and drove out to the coast. We took a short walk up to a view of Mangawhai, and Mangawhai Heads, and journeyed over the hill to Langs Beach. The Hen & Chicken Islands were in full view. Paul & Margaret met us at the bach, and we enjoyed a moonlit dinner on the deck, followed by a beautiful beach walk in the moonlight.

Off to Whangaroa on Wednesday. Not such a bad trip as we had broken it up with our stop at Langs Beach. We found Chris & Jeanette's place in Whangaroa without any difficulty. The only difficulty we had was getting up their incredibly, steep driveway...it took 3 attempts! The house is still under construction, but Chris made sure there was electricity, running water, and a functioning bathroom. We were priviledged to be put up on the top floor with an outstanding view. Well...anywhere in this house has an incredible view. The Whangaroa Harbour is right in front of their house, and a high rock outcropping called St. Paul's is to the right. Whangaroa Harbour has very steep hills/cliffs surrounding it. Very dramatic landscape. Chris gave us a tour of the sights in the area that afternoon..which included the beautiful Mataturi Bay. It seemed to me that every bay/cove we saw was more incredible that the last.

New Year's Eve, and we took off from Whangaroa to see the sights of Cape Reinga. Along the way we had breakfast and coffee in a nice little town called Mangonui. Mangonui is situated on Doubtless Bay...another gorgeos area! We thought about driving on Ninety Mile Beach...but that was as far as we got...just thinking about it. Instead, we drove straight up to the Cape. It just boggles my mind that the road is nicely sealed all along the way...except the last 20 kilometers. It was incredibly dusty going that last 20 k's. At the end, there is a lighthouse to walk down to, and a very clear view of where the mighty Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea. This was the spot where all of the tourists were swarming, so we decided to get away from that element and explore a place called Spirits Bay.

After the first 20 Kms. of dirt, we got another 15 kms. of more dirt...Yay! NOT! I am not a fan of dirty, dusty roads. However, Spirits Bay was one of the most amazing beaches I have ever seen. The sand was soft as silk, and there were pockets of pink hued shells broken down along the beach. There were also piles if beautiful shells. The beach was shaped like a half moon with gorgeous blue and green waters. You could see all the way back out to the tip of Cape Reinga...but it was too hazy to see the Three King's Islands. We had our picnic here, and explored the beach & tidepools, collected our sample of sand/shells for our ever growing collection. Another place that we are lucky to have visited!

We arrived back in Whangaroa around 5:30, made a very delish dinner, and settled into New Year's Eve among good friends. Jeanette had received a Play Station game called Mr. Buzz, so we played as teams. Having never played a video game before you can imagine that I was extremely handicapped...and very hopeless when it came to pressing the correct button. Forget about being quick! I was the loser...and the slowest responder. But...who cares...we had peals of laughter at the game show host who continued to diss me throughout the game. It was a fun, and clever quiz night! Midnight arrived...we all wished each other a Happy New Year, and most of us went off to bed. Chris, Rob & Ross sat out the window on the top floor overlooking the harbour telling stories and looking at the blue moon until...??? I was dead asleep when they all went to bed.

Back in Devo...had no traffic on the way home. So...we will remember that New Year's Day is a good day to travel!

Wishing you all a happy, healthy New Year filled with fun, laughter and goodness! Cheers to you all!

Milford Track!

2009-12-19T10:02:00.000-08:00

Our long awaited trip to the South Island has come and gone. And, what an adventure we had! On December 3, our friend, Lisa, arrived from California to join Rob and me on a guided trek on the Milford Track. On the 6th we left Auckland, and flew to Queenstown for our pre-trek orientation. Queenstown lies on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, the third largest lake in NZ. Our hotel was situated up on a hill...with a very nice view of the lake, and the remarkable, Remarkable Mountain Range. The next morning at 8:25, we caught the yellow bus that stopped right in front of our hotel, and made our way to The Station where we were to catch another bus that would take us to the beginning of our trek...and the beginning of an awesome adventure. We were a bit taken back when we realized that there would be 45 other people on the guided walk, as in our minds we had thought it would be a small, intimate group. Having said that, we realized early on, that it really did not matter how many people were with our group because we all had a different tramping pace. Rob & I kept our own pace, as we stopped frequently to delight in the natural beauty that the track is so well known for. I can not begin to describe the different shades of green mosses that hung onto anything it could grow on. I had no idea that there were bright purple mushrooms, and fungus that was so bright yellow it looked for a moment to resemble cauliflower. We got pictures of this purple mushroom...so you don't need to think I have gone off flying in fairyland.

As usual...the weather has a way of making sure you know it is here in NZ. I overheard someone describing the weather, and she said...'We don't really have marked seasons, here in NZ. We just have 'weather all year round'...RIGHT! It's that 'four seasons in every day' back again! So, my trusty weather man, Rob, pointed out that we would most likely have some heavy rain the first couple days of our trek. Hmmmn...was not really too keen on tramping a a total downpour...but that wouldn't stop the trek if we had rain. There is never the wrong weather...just the wrong equiptment and clothing. Fortunately, we had prepared for this scenario.

The coach that we boarded in Queenstown took us to another location called Te Anau where we had lunch, picked up 2 more guides, and 2 more trekkers. We were then taken to a place on Lake Te Anau called Te Anau Downs, where we boarded a ferry that transported us to the beginning of the track. It was about 3:00 in the afternoon when the boat dropped us off on the jetty. Today, all we had to do was walk a very short distance to the first lodge, Glade House. At this point, the weather was still looking pretty good...a few clouds, but no precipitation. After we dropped our packs at the lodge, we had an option to take a nature walk with some of the guides. We were divided up and off we went to hear about the flora and fauna on our nature walk. That is where we saw that purple mushroom. We walked up to a waterfall that was cascading down from Dore Pass to Lake Te Anau. All the water in this region is pure, and safe to drink, as there are no sources of contamination upstream. It was so refreshing! All along the track it was safe to fill up your water bottles...such a welcome relief from having to sterilize the water before you could drink it. Back at Glade House we enjoyed a very nice dinner served by our friendly guides. We then had our 'Hello I am...and why I am here...'session,retired to our rooms before the generator turned off...and lights out. We needed our beauty rest for the next day. We were instructed to leave the light switch on in our room so the light would wake us in the morning.

Before the light came on to wake us...the rain had been beating steadily on the roof since o'dark hundred. It was not exactly the weather we had wished for...but hey, we were here to have an adventure. Starting out we had to cross a swing bridge that only two people at a time could be on. That kind of bridge always gives me the noodle knees, as I have this intense fear that the cable will snap & down to the river I will go...as long as I look ahead and not down, I seem to do better. Also...such a comical reflection...we all did our best to avoid the puddles in the center of the track...until the track became the river, and there was no dry way around any of it! Also to note...if you thought you would be drier on the side of the track when it had turned into the river track...you really got stuffed when you sank to your chest. Hmmn...I guess there was a valid reason for those trail markers on both sides of the track. Lunch was along the track at a shelter that looked out to Hirere Falls. Our friendly, generous, guides fixed us warm drinks as we arrived to the lunch shelter. We were soaked! Thank goodness for merino wool! Even if you are wet, at least you stay warm. Lunch was quickly devoured, and off to the track we went. If we thought we saw heaps of waterfalls before lunch, we saw even more after lunch. The cliff walls were wailing!

We met some DOC workers along the way and they told us that they were constructing another bridge ready for the afternoon, as it was expected to get even wetter the next day. Hmmn...as I had my clothes plastered to my body, I thought...how much wetter could one get? I already resembled the look of a drowned rat! Crikey! And the next day was going to be the big climb up and over Mackinnon Pass!

After 16 kilometers we reached Pompolona Lodge. Our host wanted to show us about the place and have nice chat...and all Gailini and I wanted to do was get out of our wet clthes, find a shower and find something dry to put on. I was praying like mad that my pack liner kept my dry clothes...dry! Somehow, I managed to lose Rob along the way as he was trying to take pictures, and all I could think of was that hot shower. So he wandered in to our room about 45 minutes later than I had arrived. He was thouroughly enjoying the massive waterfalls and the gorgeous bush, so he was in no hurry to hang out at the lodge.

Heaps of heavy, water-soaked clothes began piling up outside our door...there was a hand crank laundry water extractor that I used to get most of the water rung out of our clothes. And then there was the drying room. The drying room that we all came to love! It not only dried our clothes...but it was warm! Boy did it feel great to be clean, dry, and warm! After our dinner, and briefing to alert us of what we should expect going up and over the pass...it was time to pass out.

Rob & I both slept like bricks, and did not know when the lights had come on even though we left the light to the bathroom on with the fan, as well as the light in the bedroom. When we finally realized that the light was on...we flew into our clothes, and made it down to make our lunch as everyone else was sitting down for breakfast. This was the day they said we would need to leave early...or at least before 8am. We still had to pack our packs after breakfast...and Gailini, Charles, and Lisa were all waiting for us to show up...oops.

If we thought Tuesday was wet...well, a new meaning of wet was discovered as we trudged through more water and waterfalls on Wednesday. No matter what kind of gear you had...there was no gear that kept you 100% dry. The part up the switch backs was not really as bad as we had been led to believe...it was the wind at the top of the pass, and the 20 minutes more to Pass Hut for lunch that did me in. Sweet, Mio, another fantastic guide, greeted us at the memorial cross with hot Milo...but there was no view to behold...just bucketing, freezing rain. Wind + wet = cold...and I was getting very cold, and very grumpy. I knew I had to get to that hut, warm up, and get an attitude adjustment while eating. Thankfully, this hut had a heater, and more warm drinks. I am so grateful for that hot Milo! Our guides really had that drink down! I found my merino hat and gloves and put them on before we went back out to the whipping wind. Now we were going to go straight down the other side on the emergency track. Slowly, we made our way through raging waterfalls, and wet track as the water continued to gush out of everything. For a very brief moment, we were able to see through a break in the clouds to the valley below. Down, down, down we went. Along the way there were heaps of Mt. Cook lilies growing on the side of the track. Even though the water was overwhelming...the scenery was fabulous. It really was magical. After this very challenging day, Rob had enough energy to drop off his pack and go out to Sutherland Falls, the 5th highest waterfall in the world. Frankly, I had seen enough waterfalls the past two days...so I opted for a nap, and a shower. One thing you do well after a tramp like that...sleep like a brick!

Day four, and again we had an early start as we had 21 kilometers to cover. We also had glorious sunshine! Yay!! The bush was sparkling and glistening with the rays of the sun filtering through. The air was crisp and fresh, and the rivers and waterfalls were still raging in a torrent. Birds were singing, and all was fantastic on our last day in the bush! I had never tramped for 21 kms. in my life...so this was going to be yet another challenge for me. I was constantly stopping in amazement of the beauty that we were traveling through. The track just kept getting more and more beautiful. We passed Mackay Falls, and Bell Rock...climbed up along a cliff wall, crossed over rivers, and we were immersed in the bush full of ferns and mosses. It was exponential beauty! We had great plant identification chats with Charlotte & Lizzy, and Tom & Johanna. It was incredible what we saw! And...we were dry today! We reached Sandfly Point a little late, but the Captain waited graciously for us. Such hospitality!

You definitely would not want to wait for too long at Sandfly Point. Those little buggers pack a nasty bite...and somehow they love my skin. Once we got out to the sound, the sandflies disappered, and a pod of dolphins came up to the boat swimming along side of us. What an awesome greeting! Milford Sound was under sunny skies, waterfalls were crescending down the cliffs, and all was glorious. We were deposited onto the Milford Harbour docks, and caught a very short bus ride up to the Mitre Peak Lodge. Again, that hot shower was the ticket! It was the most amazing hike I had ever done in my life. I would do it again in a heartbeat...but, maybe I would check out some other treks first. :) Cheers! And Ho, Ho, Ho!!

2009-11-04T23:32:00.000-08:00

Spring Is Not What You Think Spring Should Be

If you were to tell me that Spring has sprung...at this point I would say you are mad! There is no rhyme or reason to the NZ Springtime...which means there must be a 5th season during the year that no one tells you about. The 5th season is the crazy, bucketing, hosing down rain that happens out of no where. Literally, you can wake up and have the most gorgeous morning laid out...and in the space of 10 minutes you can have bucketing, hosing rain coming down...and if you are as unfortunate as I have been...you will be WET!!!

Spring in my poor mind is gorgeous. Flowers bloom, sun is shining, and for the most part, Spring is like a comfortable sit in the window seat. However...here in NZ, Spring is like a wild animal that I never knew existed! I would expect these rain outbursts in the dead of winter...but the spring I have tucked in my memories is gentle, with an occasional shower. I remember the saying...'April showers bring May flowers'. But it is October...and I do not see the May flowers....some days I can barely see the Sky Tower.

I have finished up my mosaic art class at the school I was volunteering at..at least for now. My neighbor, Margaret, is a year 4 teacher at a private school over in Mt. Eden, and she asked me if I would be interested in helping out with a new art lesson. So every Tuesday I would make my way on the ferry, and then bus up to Mt. eden to teach in her classroom about mosaic art. The first few classes were utter chaos...I had previously taught groups of no more than 10...and here were 17 very active eight and nine year olds constantly asking questions, and sometimes being naughty. Glue was a bit of a worry, as it found more than just the surface of their projects. After the third class the students began to settle down and truly get into their creations.The final finish on the project allowed me to work with just two students at a time. Trying to oversee 17 students grouting their projects for the first time would have been a real nightmare. Working with just two students at a time gave me a great opportunity to get to know these special children. Our art class became the envy of the school, as the projects progressed each week. Other teachers have asked Margaret if I would consider teaching their classes...but...as of this moment I have not committed to any further volunteer projects.

The last day I was at school was special person/grandparent day. The whole school put on a musical program. My students very dearly asked me to come to their performance. I was in awe at the talent that they displayed. They sang, they played piano & violin, and they did parts of their theater performances. Truly amazing! When it was time for me to leave, the class gathered round and presented me with a huge envelope with personal thank you notes. Some of the girls clung to my leg and told me that they wished I could come back and teach them agian. I didn't have time to read these notes until I got home, as I was trying to make it to the bus stop. While we ate dinner, I read the notes to Rob and he was quite touched at how much the students enjoyed their mosaic class.

A few weeks ago I was walking with a friend from the gym, and she mentioned that since I love to be out walking that I should join the WOPS group. WOPS? (Women's Outdoor Pursuits). I was able to sign up just in time for the 6, once a week, intensive courses on saftey while out in the bush. Our first two weeks were indoor, learning about all aspects of tramping safety in the NZ bush. Then...yesterday, we got out in the bush, and abseiled down a cliff. I never in my wildest dreams thought that I would ever find myself at the top of a cliff with a harness around my mid section, rope woven through my harness, and walk flat footed down the cliff. This lesson was about teaching trust, confidence and courage. Man I was trusting that instructor!! I am happy to say that I made it down that cliff with not one scape or bruise. My knees did, however, turn to noodles after I had made it down safely. I can also tell you that I will nevah, evah, evah do that again!!

Next week we will go into the bush on the Okura River Bush Walk. If it stops raining we might not need to hose down after the hike. It was reported to still be very muddy yesterday...and today we got more rain. As soon as the six weeks are up, I will be able to join in on 2 hikes a week. Have to pass the test first! Then I'll be an official wopper!

Rob & I continue to train for our trek that is coming up in less than 4 weeks! Hills and stairs are our focus... Hopefully, I will be reporting amazing things about our experience in the Milford Sound and Queenstown in the South Island. Our friend, Lisa, will be joining us from the States, so we have been busy making plans for a great time. You only turn 50 once!!

The beauty in New Zealand continues to amaze us...even despite all the rain we are experiencing. I hope you are all well and are enjoying a beautiful Fall. Can't believe one year ago there was a going away party for us at the Gun Club!

Thunder Storms, Bucketing Rain, and Tsunami Warnings...Is It Really Springtime?

2009-10-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

Wow! I can not believe the weather we have experienced since the official beginning of Spring on the first of September. Rob had to go back to the states for a business meeting with the parent company out of Milwaukee. Since his meeting was starting on a Monday, and since his mom's birthday was on a Wednesaday, and since he was missing our kids...I convinced him to leave a little earlier to surprise his mom, and spend time with our kids, before he went off to Milwaukee. It turned out that this plan worked really well.

I was of course, alone, during the time Rob was gone. He had taken the ferry, then the bus to the airport on the way out of NZ. He left the car in our car park, and told me before he left that he hoped that I would start driving while he was gone. Well...I have been quite comfortable here without driving, as, if I need to go anywhere I take a bus or a ferry, or a train. But, I knew that it would mean a lot to Rob if I could get over my fear of driving here...so I started by pulling out of the carpark. Then, I managed to do the 5 point turn to get out of the drive...and I prayed like crazy that I would not scrape the car in the narrow driveway. Whew! Got out of the driveway and drove out to my friend, Faith's house to take a walk about her neighborhood. It was surprisingly easy, as I kept my mantra to stay to the center of the street. Thank you, Riki, for helping me keep focused. The next day I ventured out to Takapuna...a town on the North Shore very close to Devonport. So, I was finally getting comfortable behind the wheel. Well...not really comfortable, but I knew I could do it! So, the day Rob returned to NZ, I got up at some ridculous hour and checked to see if his flight had an arrival time. His flight was due to arrive 1/2 hour earlier than I thought it would be in...4:45 am. I was awake, so I decided to drive the 45 minutes out to the airport to surprise him. Only problem was, he did not have his phone turned on, and his plan was to take the bus to the ferry & take the ferry back to Devonport. I litereally arrived at the airport at 5:17 am...pulled into the carpark, and got into the greeting area at 5:18am. Rob walked out the customs clearance door at exactly 5:19am. You should have seen his expression! He was so amazed...and shocked! I wanted to tell him that i took the bus all the way from Auckland so we could ride hom together...but I held up the keys. He was really happy to see me. However, he drove home.

It was a completely gorgeous morning when I picked Rob up at AKL (Auckland International Airport). Because he had been cooped up on a plane for so long, he really wanted to get a good walk in, and then completely crash into his pillow. So, we had a fabulous, gorgeous hike around Devonport. I went off to my class that I take every Monday, and Rob unpacked, and soon found his pillow. I actually came home from my class, and curled up, and completely went into a deep sleep for 3 hours. I guess the drive to the airport was a bit more than my system could really handle...and it was at an unbelievably, early time. It was so great to have Rob back here in NZ.

Since Rob has come home, the weather has been full on! I still can not believe the force of the rain when it comes down. One day, I was coming home from the class that I was teaching in Mt. Eden when the skies totally unloaded the most powerful rain storm. Luckily, I was close to a cafe when the water statred to beat down. My friend, Beth, came down to the cafe & we had a nice warm coffee as the rain just pounded outside. Finally, I was able to make my way to the ferry building before the rain got furious again. When the ferry landed in Devonport, it was heaving against the dock, which the New Zealander's call the jetty. Getting off the ferry was a bit of a serious balancing act. I really get affected by rolling, jolting sea motions, so it is really difficult for me to be thrust onto the dock like that. Thankfully, I managed to get to dry dock. And, thankfully, I was able to take my time leaving the ferry building, as the storm was still unleashing crazy amounts of water from the sky. My friend, Faith , spoke with me during this time, and she asked how I was dealing with the 'bucketing rain'? She even felt compelled to pick me up from the ferry building so I would not have to walk home. Eventually, the rain subsided, and I was able to make a mad dash home before the next furious wall of water came down.

And...for the whole month we have had one major whopping rain storm after another! Thunder & lightening is also part of the show. The other night the lightening was literally on our patio...flashing furiously at us through our window. Rob was BBQing on the back patio, and he came in the house to tell me that tonight might have been a bad night to pick to BBQ. He was supposed to put grill marks on the polenta...but it came back a little wet, and mushy. Thankfully, I could blot it off, and put it under the grill inside with the tomato/basil bruschetta. Dinner saved!

Las Saturday, Rob & i both went to the AA office in Takapuna and got our driver's licenses. Because we come from the USA, they do not even require a driving test! Yikes! I will say that everytime I get behind the wheel it feels a lot more comfortable. But...I will also tell you that the first circle I came upon...I went around and around and around...just because I could! So...if any of you are thinking about visiting...I could actually drive you around! :)

On Wednesday, when my friend Jenny came to the gym to exclaim that there was a Tsunami Warning, I thought...what next. Sure enough, the Civil Defense was out in force to keep people away from the beaches, as a Tsunami from the earthquake in Samoa was going to hit NZ at 11:12 am. There were heaps of people on the coast...looking for the big wave. The big wave never came to Auckland, but it certainly wreaked havoc in Samoa. It is astounding seeing news snips from that Tsunami zone. So sad.

So, thankfully, there was no Tsunami here. But, quite frankly, I have never experienced such severe weather in a 'springtime' ever!! Tomorrow, we are planning to tramp in the bush out on the West Coast. Also known as the 'Wet Coast'. I am really looking forward to one, whole day of sunshine!! This rain can just pack up and head off to California!

Wishing you all well! Sometime soon, I will be trying to translate some of the phrases that some of my friends I have here have humored me with. :)Heaps of hugs and love, ~Skye

Fishing & Tramping Through the End of Winter

2009-09-08T23:56:00.000-07:00

We have survived our first Kiwi winter...although, at times I was seriously confused because August in my mind should be hot with long, warm evenings. We realized that any time there was a sunny day, here, in Auckland...we better get outside to enjoy the sparse warmth. I have experienced some pretty terrific storms in California...but being on the water when a gale storm hits is such a different experience. One day we planned to take our bikes across to the other side of the harbour and ride out to a place called St. Hellier's. Sun is on the other side of the harbour in the winter, so it was looked to be a warm, winter day.

As we were waiting for the ferry, I received a text message from our friend, Jeanette. Jeanette asked if we would like to join her and her partner, Chris on a boat for the day. They were planning to cast some lines, and relax in front of Rangitoto Island. So...we rode away from the ferry building, packed our picnic, and headed over to Torpedo Bay where Chris & Jeanette picked us up from the dock. It was a stellar day...not a breath of wind as we passed North Head, and journeyed out the channel to set up for our fishing experience. Unfortunately, my nose happens to be on the ultra sensitive side, and I had to escape to the bridge to get away from the revolting smell of bait...Rob, Chris and Jeanette did manage to catch 3 snapper, which we cooked up for supper. I was finally able to come down from the bridge when Chris got rid of the excess bait. I was so affected by that smell...just like the pungent smell of geo thermal areas...makes me instantly nauseous. Some of our pictures from this gorgeous day on the harbour will be sent via my picasa web albums.

Tramping, tramping and tramping some more is how we spend our weekends as our big trip to tramp in the Milford Sound gets closer. We have also been exploring an area about an hour and a half north of Auckland outside of a charming town called Matakana. We have had several visits to an incredible beach called Tawharanui. So, a few weeks ago, we decided to check out the much touted Matakana Saturday Market, and visit another part of the coast, called Goat Island. We were told that Goat Island is an amazing marine reserve where you can snorkel and be amazed by brilliant sea life. Well...we didn't have our snorkels...but the tide was low enough to do some tide pooling, and we could see heaps of huge fish, clearly in the water. This will be a must go when the weather is warmer...and we will have our snorkels then. We had great aspirations for a worthy tramp, but the Department of Conservation had closed our chosen track due to slippage...so we ended up walking the beach and checking out the amazing tidepools.

Spring has arrived, and the first Sunday in Spring is Father's Day here in NZ. Rob wanted to go re-visit a track we had sussed out back in April...the Te Hunga Track at Bethells Beach. It was a crisp....brrr...clear day out on the west coast. The last time we did this track, I was having serious challenges with my knee being in such pain after the surgery I had in September '08. This time, we whipped through the track...so the knee is finally coming around! Another amazing day, albeit, a bit cold out on the wild west coast. We found an amazing cave at O'Neill's Beach, and watched the koru from the ferns unravel as the light helped open them up. Koru is the tightly wound new fern growth...pretty amazing to watch. There are a few pics to show you this amazing plant.

I have also included an amazing sunset on NZ Father's Day taken atop Mt. Victoria, which is a torturous hike uphill from our house here in Devonport. Torturous, because I thought we were going to miss the sunset, so I told Rob that we should just go straight up the side of the mountain to the top...instead of going the route we are accustommed to going on our regular tramps on Saturday/Sunday. By the time we reached the top of the Mountain...I thought my lung was going to pop...I even crawled over the top edge on my knees! Rob had the last laugh...
I was really gasping for my breath!

I hope this message finds you all doing well. I do have to mention that someone from the US commented on the fact that I had been 'quiet' for awhile. Well...my response to you all...we have been busy, and we also like to hear from you. So...it is a two way street folks... keep us informed as well, as we miss you all heaps!

Taupo & Hawke's Bay

2009-08-16T18:04:00.000-07:00

Rob & I just returned from a little trip that we had planned a few months ago. We drove south of Auckland to Lake Taupo, where we traded one of our timeshare weeks. Friday, August 7th was a gorgeous, sunny, clear day when we arrived in Lake Taupo. Lake Taupo is the largest volcanic lake in the world...186 meters deep! The view from the top of the lake across to the Tongariro Mtn. Range was spectacular! Such brilliant white, snow capped mountains, deep blue sky, and flat calm lake...normally the scene at Lake Taupo is wind, wind, and more wind. So we hit the weather on the right week!
We did a fair amount of tramping in the bush...along the walking track at Huka Falls, out to Crater's of the Moon, and Spa Thermal Park, the Wairakei Thermal Park and the Aratiatia Dam area of the Waikato River. Thermal Parks are a real trip...the earth lets out heaps of hissing steam, and gurgling pots of mud. Sometimes it smells unpleasant..like rotten eggs, but for the most part it wasn't too bad. We also had a walk about the Botanical Gardens, and a nice Lake Cruise to see some impressive Maori Cliff carvings, as well as a nice drive to Mt. Ruhapehu and the Tongariro Mountain Range. Our last two days were spent on a small tour of the Hawke's Bay region...about an hour and a half drive from Taupo. Rob has been looking forward to visiting Hawke's Bay, as it is a world class wine region. We could have spent a week in the Hawke's Bay Region...next time we will stay longer.

We really lucked out on the weather...first three days were brilliant, clear, sunny. Next couple of days we were hiking in overcast, cold weather, and our visit to Hawke's Bay was sunny & warm...16 degrees. The day we drove up to the mountains, we were hoping to do a track called the Tongariro Crossing...but the snow closed the trail..so we opted for a much shorter track called Tawhai Falls. Even though the weather looked like it was warm...it was not. It was 2 or 3 degrees Celsius, and you really had to move quickly to stay warm.

Our timeshare was a bit on the hokey side...except for the thermal spa that every room had. Natural, thermal water to soak in any time you filled the huge tub. It was such a welcome amenity for those cold days out tramping...and cold mornings trying to warm up so we could go tramping.

The common theme for me as we return home from our journeys have been...ah...my own bed. I love to go and explore...but there is nothing as nice as my own bed when I return. If I could only attach it to the car when we go on holiday...

I have sent most of you...if not all of you the photos of our trip to Taupo. If you somehow did not manage to receive them, give me a shout, and I'll send them to you.

I am looking forward to the beginning of Spring on September 1!! I am not much of a fan of the Winter. Gale winds, and squalls can go away until next winter for me. Enjoy the rest of your Summer in the US. And...please keep in touch. Cheers! ~Skye

Were Does the Time Go?

2009-06-17T00:43:00.000-07:00

I never really understood my mother when she used to tell me that time just flies by...and,every year it goes faster and faster! Almost two months have passed and it seems like I wrote my last post just yesterday. In mid May, Rob & I traveled home to the US to attend Ross' graduation from CSU Chico, as well as attend a special ash spreading ceremony on the SF Bay to wish Papa a final goodbye. We also managed to celebrate my 50th Birthday with many of you at a fun gathering at the Sonoma Plaza Park. It was a real whirlwind trip. Next time we come home...I would enjoy a bit slower pace!

It was so great to see our kids, as we both miss them heaps! It was also great to see all our family & friends...Farmer's Market in Sonoma, staying with Mickey, staying with Emmy & Chris in Sacramento, traveling to Chico, staying in Glen Ellen with Mary, Greg & girls, sailing on the Bay, seeing my family. Links to pictures will follow this post.

Now we are back in NZ, and it is very much winter here. As I write this, the wind is whipping,wildly, and the rain is pounding down! Rob & I took our Sunday morning walk in shorts and rain slickers...shorts, because no matter what you wear...you are going to get wet, and rain jacket...to keep the upper body warm. When we got to Cheltenham Beach, the wind was blowing the rain straight in our faces! No wussing out here! We were out with all the other crazy people getting in their daily exercise. If you can believe it...there were even people crazy enough to be sailing! I guess that would tell you what kind of a sailor I am...not a wet weather sailor! It really does not matter what kind of weather is here...the Kiwi's just do it! Nothing seems to stop them from their run/walk/cycle.

When we arrived home, there were flowers, balloons and a banner wishing me a Happy Birthday! A very special welcome home, indeed! The weather was picture postcard clear, but very COLD! Coming from warm, sunny California was a bit of a contrast. Rob took me to have lunch at the Sky Tower so we had an amazing view all the way out to Little Barrier Island and the Coromandel Peninsula. I was also treated to lunch by my gym buddies here in NZ. They took me to a very flash place on the harbour, and we had heaps of fun for the whole afternoon.

It seems that my Birthday just kept on being celebrated, as our friends, Joan & Mark rented a Bach (sounds like batch, and is a vacation home) on the Coromandel Peninsula. It is roughly a three hour drive from our house in Devonport. Rob & I were treated to the master bedroom, that had a view overlooking Pauanui. The Bach was in Tairua. All weekend we explored the Coromandel Peninsula...went to Hot Water Beach, and a very neat Art Gallery there. We also hiked to a place called Cathedral Cove. It seemed like everytime we were in the car, torrents of rain came down, and everytime we were walking, the storm broke, making it possible for us to enjoy the day without getting drenched. Rob got some amazing shots of our time in the Coromandel.

On June 15th, we had our first non-family visitor from the States. Drew Pickering, who was working the harvest @ St. Clair Winery in Blenheim, was passing through Auckland for a few days. Actually, he had stayed here twice before, but Rob & I had both been back in the states when he passed through previously. Drew had been in NZ since February, and had quite an impressive itinerary of where he had traveled. He put on an amazing slide show of his visit the night before he left to go back home to Sonoma. We really enjoyed having Drew as a guest.

Actually...to be more accurate about visitors...Mike & Mary Szykowny were are first non-family visitors. I failed to acknowledge that fact as they actually stayed in a very fancy hotel in Devonport, and not in our little apartment. We had heaps of fun while they were here, and they had heaps of fun on their own little jaunt down south to Rotorua, Lake Terawera, and the Waitomo Caves. Mary did say..."don't ever stay in the Waitomo Hotel"...Sorry to M&M for that gaff in my memory!

Rob & I have been in training for a trek that we are booked on in December. We are going to do the Milford Trek, out of Queensland, with my friend Lisa, and our friends Joan & Mark. There is one day that is fairly long...20km. So, every weekend, we hike on both days. When my knee was so weak, I could only ride a bike at the gym, but now I am getting stronger, and able to keep up with Rob. Well...almost keep up. He is still faster, but I am getting better!

Last Sunday, it was particularly clear out...windy, and cold, but clear. We drove to Gulf Harbour and took a ferry ride out to a bird sanctuary called Tiritiri Matangi. It is a special island where the Department of Conservation is bringing back habitats for rare and endangered plants and animal species. Because it is an open sanctuary, you can hike around and enjoy the amazing sights and scenes. Many volunteers work to help maintain the Island. The DOC has has massive planting campaigns where even school children have volunteered, planting native species of bush, so the bird life would thrive. It was another amazing experience here in NZ.

This past weekend was foggy, wet, and miserable weather. Last night we had such loud thunder & lightening it felt like our house was going to shake apart! When they say there is a heavy storm coming...they really mean it! Rob & I are settling in here...hunkering down for the rest of the winter...it is sure strange having Winter in the Summer months, and Summer in the Winter months! I hope you are all enjoying your nice, warm, days!

PS...the links below are my picasa web albums from the various activities we have done over the past few months. Just click on the link, and it should bring up the particular album. :)Some of you may have seen Papa's Last Sail, and Ross' Graduation.

http://picasaweb.google.com/miller.skye/TiritiriMatangi?authkey=Gv1sRgCOvkwOTlu5XswAE&feat=directlink

http://picasaweb.google.com/miller.skye/Coromandel?authkey=Gv1sRgCIC6_Y-TkY2yiQE&feat=directlink

http://picasaweb.google.com/miller.skye/SkyeSSonoma50thParty?authkey=Gv1sRgCJKA4tn92dDDWw&feat=directlink

http://picasaweb.google.com/miller.skye/PapaSLastSail?authkey=Gv1sRgCKy1657ktsHigwE&feat=directlink

http://picasaweb.google.com/miller.skye/WelcomeHomeBirthdayLunchWithTheGymGirls?feat=directlink

http://picasaweb.google.com/miller.skye/RossGraduationFromCSUChico?authkey=Gv1sRgCI2tltv0qemn-AE&feat=directlink

Two days of Tramping

2009-05-10T16:03:00.000-07:00

Saturday and Sunday Rob & I got out our boots and headed out to do some tramping...getting ready for the Milford Sound Trek that we have booked for December. Saturday, we drove to Long Bay, a beautiful beach on the East Coast Bays, and took a tramp along the bluffs through Granny Bay,Pohutukowa Bay, and finally to the Okura River. We could have tramped along the shore, but we decided that even though it was very low tide, we needed the hills and steps to get us stronger. And...even if we would have tramped along the shore...we could have been layed flat many times as it was dangerously slippery on the rocks. Emily can attest to slippery rocks along the shore. She took a huge fall when she was visiting here over the Christmas break. The tramp along the bluffs was under some sunny skies, mixed with a few rain showers. Amazing rainbows, and incredible display of big white birds dive bombing into the sea to catch fish. Not sure what kind of birds, but they certainly produced a splash when they hit the water! It was a glorious day, with gorgeous vistas looking out to the Gulf Islands...Rangitoto Island, Tiritiri Matangi Island, Little Barrier, and others that I do not know how to say or spell. Considering that it began to pour on us when we began our adventure, it was amazing that we stuck it out and completed what we set out to do. Saturday night I was in bed by 8:30, after a nice dinner that Rob cooked, and a hot bath.

Mother's Day was so different without having the kids around. Rob was so sweet...he made me a gorgeous mixed berry crepe, fresh papaya with lime and a flat white for breakfast. The kids called on Skype, and then I received a gorgeous bouquet of flowers from Ross & Emmy. It got me all teared up...and made me miss them even more!

My wish was to take a bush walk for our daily activity. I got my wish, but the weather was dark & gloomy. When we entered the Okura Bush Walk...it really was difficult to see, but as we continued the clouds must have lightened up because we could see better. This walk was amazingly gorgeous! I kept proclaiming to Rob that it had to be one of the most beautiful bush walks I had ever been on...so lush and full of huge Kauri Trees, giant Fern trees, ferns of every kind, amazing bird life, weeping walls of water, mosses...it was just lovely. It was also very muddy! Some of the track was so muddy that I was very grateful to have my new walking poles for support. Again, we got caught in the rain...but it didn't get us through the heavy canopy of trees until we were almost back to the car. We were both quite a muddy sight!

There will be two photo links from my Picasa web album to show you how beautiful these tramps in the outdoors were for us...and both within 1/2 hour of our house here on the Waitemata Harbour.

One more week before we come home for Ross' graduation from CSU Chico!! Looking forward to some good visits!! Cheers!

Easter Week ...Tawharnui, Bethels Beach, & Feijoas

2009-04-22T02:37:00.000-07:00

How can we have already had Easter...and Easter week? I keep thinking I should be seeing tulips and daffodils, and instead I am seeing leaves falling all over the place. Christmas was warm & sunny...when it should have been cold and rainy. My brain has had to do some bending...April just does not jive with Autumn...it is Spring! Just like driving...I still do not drive here, because everything is completely backwards, but I may be getting closer as Rob is hoping to have some relief from always being the driver.

Easter was sort of an anti-climatic holiday for us...the Kiwi's do up Easter really big time, as it is one holiday that they get 4 days off. And the kids are out of school here for 2 weeks. Easter Sunday, Jarrod & Anna & Svea, our friends here in Devonport,came over for a walk along the shore. We walked to a park where little Svea played on the swings, teeter toter & slide. It was actually the first really noticeable change in the weather, and it was cold. Hard to imagine that Easter was in the middle of Autumn...Kiwi's do not call it Fall...it is Autumn. So, after a reasonable time at the park, we managed to find a cafe with nice, warm, coffee. Svea, who is 20 months, began showing signs that it was time for her nap, so Jarrod & Anna made the move to put their little darling down for a nap.

Rob & I had no plans for Easter, so we set out for a day trip. Jarrod had told us about Tawharnui, and how we should definitely go check it out. Tawharnui is pronounced Ta fra new i. It is a Marine reserve about one and a half hours from Auckland. The last 5 km was on a very skinny dirt road...as you can imagine, Rob had a lot of fun flying around the corners, while my knuckles continued to turn pale white. So, by the time we reached the beach I was welcoming fresh air, and land we could walk on! The weather was kind of overcast with a bit of sun trying to get through...so it was actually quite pleasant. We explored caves along the beach, as well as tide pools that were part of the lava flow into the ocean. The tide pools were full of fish, hermit crabs, starfish, and other sea life. The color of the water around the tide pools was a turquoise/green/blue with white sand at the bottom of the ocean. A color that can only be described as spectacular! The hills around the beach were emerald green...so awesome! And the sand...white, soft, and gorgeous! We walked down the beach to a nice, sheltered spot...threw out our blanket, and both fell into a deep nap. Tawharnui looks out to Little Barrier Island, and in it's background is Big Barrier Island. You can also see the tip of the Coramandel Peninsula far in the distance. I found perfect scallop shells, clam shells, green lipped muscle shells, snail shells, and other bits of shell along the shore after we woke from our nap.

Another day trip we took was to O'Neill Bay past Bethells Beach. We decided to go to Bethell's Beach on the west coast because we saw on a map that there was a trek that we could go tramping on. It was called the Te Hunga Trek, and it went between Bethell's Beach and Muriwai Beach. In between was O'Neill Bay...so instead of tramping through the bush all the way to Muriwai beach...we decided to go as far as O'Neill Bay. At the beginning of the Te Hunga Trek, we had to go through a pasture. There were two horses, and when they saw us, they came to greet us. One of the horses kept trying to bite Rob's pack, because we had some almonds and dried apricots in the pack. Persistent bugger! It was magical...tramping through the bush with amazing views of the ocean & the beaches below. At one point a juvenile pheasant showed us the way on the trek. Then, perhaps we were getting to close and it took to the skies, and flew off. We were able to hike down from the cliffs to the beach below at O'Neill Bay. There were three surfers entering the surf when we got down to the beach. The surf was furious, as it is the mighty, Tasman Sea. Two of the surfers looked like they knew how to handle surf, and the other guy looked like he was being tossed around like a log in an angry surf. The waves rolling into the shore were huge. Walking back to the car, that we had parked at Bethell's Beach we found another type of shell that we had not seen before...a boxy - like clam shell. Need to find a shell identification book...

Feijoa...what is a feijoa? Well...I got an e-mail from a friend, Joan...she asked if I wanted any feijoas?? Not having a clue I said...what is a feijoa? And then came the explanation that it is sort of like a fig, but it really has a taste all on it's own. By the way...they do not taste like a fig. Feijoas happen to be in season right now, and after getting a batch of feijoas from Joan...more bags full of fiijoas kept appearing on my doorstep. You can eat them alone by simply scooping out the fruit, add cream or plain yogurt & honey to them, make feijoa and ginger jam, bake a feijoa cake...there are many things you can do with a feijoa... Joan also made this amazing feijoa pate that she served with an amazing blue cheese. Way yum! Still waiting for her to share the recipe so I can make that pate!

I hope you are all doing well...less than 4 weeks before we arrive in CA.! I'll be sending links to some photos along with this blog. Cheers!!

One Perfect Night In Auckland

2009-04-03T10:36:00.000-07:00

We have been trying to organize a sailing outing with one of Rob's work mates Chris and his wife, Janine. Finally, we were able to confirm that it would work for all of our schedules to join Chris' friend Andy who was sailing in the Friday Night Rum Race. Previously, I have referred to watching the Rum races on Wednesday, Thursday & Friday evenings...but I did not know that they were called Rum races because Mt. Gay Rum sponsors the races. And if you win...you get a bottle of rum! I thought the guys were just racing & drinking rum...

I left our house at 3:00pm...making the 3:15 Ferry that took me 12 minutes to cross the water to Auckland' Waitemata Harbour. I met Janine right outside the Ferry Building, and she drove us to West Haven, the Harbour, where we were to meet the guys, and board the boat. Our skipper was Andy, the owner of the boat...a 40' Elliott called 'Sure Thing'. We were also joined by another Chris from Rob's work, and his partner, Jeanette, as well as Matt, one of Andy & Chris & Janine's friends.

Just to get the picture of the setting...we were lost in a sea of sailboats & power boats...getting ready for the race. The guys and Janine just went to work, setting the sails & the lines, while Jeanette & I sat and watched the activity. The race was to start at 4:30, so at 4:20 we pulled out of the slip and went out to join the other boats for the start. There was a light breeze as we started the race...and then as we were about to turn the second mark...the wind just died. We were all kind of bunched up around the mark, and then we caught another breeze...and again the wind died...in my mind this was perfect, as I am truly a fair weather sailor. But for the guys...they would have preferred a steady wind.We would get ahead and then we would be back in the pack...and it continued on throughout the entire race. When the boats were all bunched up, there was banter between the sailors...very friendly. It is very possible that we placed...but we did not go to the race room after the race to check, because it was so nice after, we stayed on the boat & had some nibbles and wines. The light on the harbour was gorgeous...amber hues mixed with pale blue skies and perfect white & grey clouds. It was the most calm, and civilized boating adventure I can remember...no stress...just amazing. There was a great mix of warmth and friendliness in the air.

Life from Far Away

2009-03-23T00:38:00.000-07:00

This past month has brought on more challenges to my psyche than I ever thought imaginable. On February 12th, Rob & I returned to California to say goodbye to his father, who we both were so very close to. It still does not seem possible that Papa Earl is physically gone from our lives. He was our contact back home to Sonoma...he really told us how things were...and now he is not there to talk to.It was really an emotional return home. Recently I took his contact name off of my Skype list...it is one of those things that I struggle with in this new age of technology...I still need to update my e-mail list. More tears are sure to follow.

On March 13, we had another shock jolt our psyches. One of our Dearest friends, whom we hold so close to our hearts, suffered a blow no parent should ever have to experience. Her son had been laying in a coma for a week. And now it has been more than three weeks. First of all, I need to let you all know that what ever we might be feeling...it is nowhere near what she is going through. If any of you believe in a higher spirit...now is the time to pray. Please pray for her son to come out of this coma with full brain function. We can not even comprehend the gravity of what our friend is going through. We can only hope and pray that he comes back to us with full brain function.

Funny how life experiences play such a huge part in what you feel. I know now ...and I know forever...my friendship with my friend is so important. It is so important for us to let each other know how important we are to each other. It is so difficult being so far away...I would love to be able to be there helping in anyway I know how to help...as a friend. I weep over this...and I pray like crazy!!

Rob & I are also still reeling from the loss of Rob's father, Earl. We both have good days, and bad days. Some days you wonder...is this real?? I see photos from past family events, and I fall into a mush of tears. Rob's dad is really so much more to me than a father-in-law...he was really a father to me.

So sorry if this post has made you feel...but, my experience has taught me...feeling is a good thing. Please pray for my friend, and especially for her son!

It Has Been A While

2009-03-04T07:28:00.000-08:00

Where does the time fly...it seems like yesterday we were going through customs with our caravan of luggage behind us. It was the first days of Summer when we arrived, today it is the 5th day of Autumn. There is a definite change in the light and the weather. Even if you think you are organized to do a move out of the country...think again, because as I have found...there are many little details that have been overlooked. And, some of the silliest things, like file folder tabs that you left behind...are impossible to find here to fit your file folders. When you are trying to organize paper & files...this is just a little thing, but for me it is important. Also...I don't think we will ever find anything that even closely resembles good salsa...I pine for Herdez Green Salsa! Anyone coming to visit will be required to bring with them a case of canned Herdez salsa for our pantry.

After coming home from our Hawaiian vacation, we thought we would have time to actually settle in here at our cozy, little apartment. However, calls and e-mails from home were coming frequently to update us on Papa's condition, as he lay in a hospital in Sonoma for 2 weeks. What a roller coaster ride of emotions! The difficult part for us is that we were so far away. We couldn't just jump in the car, and go to be with Papa. Then, Thursday, February 12 Rob rang me to say that he had booked 2 tickets for that same evening, because it was time to get home to say goodbye to Papa. I don't even remember how I packed...only that I did not pack properly, as it was 88 degrees, and fully humid when I was packing. Forgot how cold winter really is in CA. The traffic to the airport was unreal. We made the flight, but we were the last people to check in. And if I thought the flight coming over to NZ was long in December, this flight seemed like we would never get off that plane. We arrived at 10:45 am on the 12 of February...Sounds neat, gaining hours...except that it makes for one of the longest days of your life.

When we arrived in SF, and got sorted with the car, we drove straight to the hospital. Papa was lucid, recognized us, and was surprised and happy that we were there. Even though everyone in the family tried to prepare us, we weren't prepared for how Papa looked. The family had been rallying everyday, for those two weeks. There were really hopeful days, and then the days when Papa would slip back. The day we arrived, Papa was holding court...telling one line jokes as he responded to our questions. It wasn't easy to understand, but some of his hand gestures helped to convey the message. It was a huge relief the next morning to be able to get him home, and out of that hospital. I think once the decision was made it was a matter of a few short hours before we had a bed delivered & made up, and Papa was transported by ambulance to his home. Hospice really makes things happen. Papa was truly surrounded by his loving family at his home.

It all has been so surreal. Like it never really happened, and it is all just a bad dream. However, I know otherwise. It was amazing how quickly the family got a service organized, before we had to fly back to NZ. There were some really great stories and memories shared. We were so spoiled having Papa so close to us in Sonoma, to bounce ideas and recipes back and forth. We would be the lucky ones to always receive his fresh tomatoes, basil, lemons, limes, and peaches. Those peaches were like candy! Last summer, after Matt & Nina's wedding, I went over to the house to help Papa pick peaches. He sat on the lounge and told me all kinds of stories about his life while I picked the tree bare. I had boxes of peaches, and since we were leaving for Glenbrook, we took the peaches to the annual family gathering. When I had my knee surgery in September, Papa and Grandma came over with the cutest little meatloaf, and a salad for me & Rob. Well, Papa, last night I made your famous meatloaf, and we lifted a glass to you! What a gift it was at Christmas to receive Papa's cookbook. Many thanks to Sheila for getting that project to fruition. I will miss all my good times with you, Papa!! You will always be in my heart.

So where has the time gone? Can't really answer that...just trying to make our way here, and get more settled. I told Rob, when we got back a few weeks ago, that it felt good to be back in NZ...like we were home. I still miss you all, and I do love hearing from you. And I keep waiting to hear from some of you...Cheers, until next time!

Christmas, Boxing Day & New Year's in NZ

2009-01-02T01:32:00.000-08:00

It is so great to have Ross & Emmy here to celebrate the holidays! They arrived from California on Monday the 22nd, and we have been having heaps of fun together. They are in awe of this beautiful, new, place that we live. Our first afternoon, after a much needed nap, Rob, Ross, and Emmy took a walk around North Head & Cheltenham Beach. I stayed back at the house, sneaking in an extra nap. We also drove up to Albany that afternoon to pick up my custom orthotics from the podiatrist. I have been waiting for these orthotics, since early November, when my left foot flared up with a nasty,neuroma. Ever since I have had the orthotics, it has made an enormous difference in my foot. Walking with pain all the time is not any kind of picnic. So, now I am a happy camper!

Tuesday morning, we all woke up a little slow...Rob had to go off to the office, and I needed to do some grocery shopping. Ross & Emmy got settled in, and then they took our bikes out for a little tour of Devonport. We all met up in the afternoon, and took a ferry over to the big city. Auckland is only 12 minutes by Ferry from Devonport. The Christmas shoppers were bustling about, collecting their last minute gifts. We were on the lookout for the famous, Auckland, Santa figure that beckoned all with his crooked finger while one of his eyes was supposed to blink at you. His one eye bulged out unnaturally, as his other eye was slightly sunken and looking off to the side. He was fastened on the corner of Whitcoul's, a stationary store. Locals here say that this Santa has caused quite a stir in recent years as he looked a little on the perverse side. Once we saw the Santa, I would have to confer that he did indeed look a little suspicious. As we headed up Victoria Street, it began to sprinkle. We were looking to check out the famous Sky Tower. Hoping to make a reservation for dinner in one of the two restaurants at the top, but they were fully booked. When we came out of the Sky Tower, the little drizzle had turned to a torrent of rain...and we were completely unprepared for any kind of heavy rain...so we ducked & covered as best we could as we made our way back to the ferry. We were all completely soaked through by the time we walked from the ferry building to the house. Thankfully we have a little gas fire place, and soon we were being warmed by the fake, glowing coals...

Christmas Eve, and the rain was still pounding away...a good day to take a walk around our village & gather all the last minute stuff for Christmas Dinner. There is a local butcher here, and we had ordered a ham...actually the very first ham we have ever ordered. Emily was thrilled that we would be getting ham, and not missing Papa's Christmas ham at Sheila's house. Although...I think Papa & Sheila do something different with the glaze than I did. Never having made a glaze, or heated a ham in my life, I asked the lady at the butcher for a recipe, and she gave me a very simple glaze to make & baste on the ham as it heated. The ingredients were brown sugar & orange marmalade...not ham with hundreds of cloves, but it did turn out to be very tasty!

Christmas Day was a picture, perfect postcard for how beautiful it is here in NZ. The harbour was mirror like, with just the slightest breeze. We packed up a picnic & drove out to the west coast to a beach called Piha Beach. Piha Beach is on the Tasman Sea, and at times can be very rough. Christmas Day, the weather was perfect at Piha, and we were able to picnic in the dunes and walk the beach with minimal wind. There is a huge monolithe, called Lion's Rock that Rob, Ross & Emmy climbed up for a 360 degree view of the area. I stayed off this rock, as I am still having some issues with my knee that I had surgery on in September. I think this knee surgery has taken a lot longer to fully heal than I was lead to believe...We came home to Devonport in the late afternoon & decided to play Petanque, on the shell path infront of our house. Petanque is the french version of bocce ball. We decided to play individual teams, and I took the game! Yay for me! We have since played teams of two, and Rob & I won the 2 out of 3 match against the kids. All the while we are playing petanque, the sail boats, power boats, ferries, & cargo ships are passing by in front of us. Rob & Emily got Christmas dinner to the table, and we ate dinner by the lights of our little fake xmas tree that came from Rob's office party completely decorated. We sort of borrowed this little tree, as everyone was off work until January 5, 2009. It still did not feel like Christmas at all...not cold enough, and not all the family gatherings to attend. However, our Christmas was a very, quiet, reflective, and enjoyable time being together as our own little family unit.

Boxing Day is almost more of a holiday here in NZ than Christmas Day, and it follows just one day later. I still have no clue what the significance of Boxing Day is, but the whole country is on holiday, and nothing is open except restaurants & retail stores. Maybe Jenny, or Colin, can help educate me as to the significance of this day? Apparently you can get all kinds of bargains at the big stores. We took a ferry ride over to the city in the afternoon, looking for those bargains...where was Karen when we needed her? Actually, Emily found some good deals, and Rob found some binoculars that he got an extra 15% off so that when he looks at the ships coming into the port, he can read the words on the side of the ship. I think he may be looking at more than just ships...

Well a lot has happened since Boxing Day! I still have no idea why everyone here celebrates this day...but now we are on to the future...We were invited out to the bush, to spend the night on Sunday, the 28th of December. The bush, as we were to find out was a 2 and a half hour jaunt north...except that they are still working on a faster highway north, and our trip turned into a 4 hour excursion. Thank goodness that Chris, (our friend) gave us his Garmin...otherwise it could have been a 6 or 7 hour trip. We literally went on this road that went dirt FOREVER!! When you are sitting in the back seat you notice every turn and twist..believe me...there were too many turns & twists to remember. After awhile you need to close your eyes to ward off the nauseousness settling in. Finally, we arrived at 'The Hillbilly Inn'... There really is no accurate description of this place at virtually the end of a road to no where. Apparently this was a gun club at one time, and it has since been re-furbished with thrown out furniture from the rubbish dump. Seriously!! There was not one piece of furniture that ever came to this place new...and, it is still there, and it always will be. In fact, there were so many antique containers from the 30's, 40's and 50's along the shelves up high it took me a good long time to see it all. Thankfully, we did have flush toilets, and we also had lights for a short while as a generator was needed to produce that precious electricity. There was an outdoor shower that was heated by a wood stove, and also the water to do dishes was heated by this same stove. So, Chris was busy stoking the fire...even at 4 am he woke, so Jeanette, his partner, could have a nice warm shower at 8am. What a guy! I guess I forgot to mention that as soon as we arrived at this Hillbilly Inn, it began to pour...rain started out like a gentle mist, and soon turned to a torrent of water. We had walked down from our accommodation to see the property owner's collection of Ford cars that went back to easily the 30's or 40's. This guy has so many cars, car parts, hub caps, oil can funnels...he even had a 1950's Shell Station Pump with the office to go with it! I mean...just having made a huge move half way around the world...I was forced to give up a lot of stuff. This guy had the market on stuff...and I felt horrified with how much stuff he really did have. I pity the poor relatives that come in after he passes...Back to our original thoughts...sorry, I got off on a little tangent here...but seriously,there was so much stuff in this guy's place I was boggled to bits!

Originally, we were invited to come to this 'Hillbilly Inn' to visit with our friends, Chris & Jeanette, and tramp in the bush to see the huge Kauri Tree that was on their property. However, with the rain pelting our little inn all night long...patter, patter, patter...all over the corrugated roof...all night long...it was apparent that we were not going to do any tramping through the bush in the morning unless we all wanted to be quite thoroughly covered in mud from head to toe. After a very protein-filled breakfast, we set out to our next destination which was one and a half hours north from where we were at the 'inn'. One thing to note about the main highway, called the 'Northern Motorway'...it is the windingest, twistiest, turniest Motorway that I have ever experienced...and imagine...the wrong side of the road, the wrong side of the car, and very narrow roadway. Hmmn...time to close your eyes, again! And lots of praying starts to happen especially if you are me in the back seat... I am not sure what seat would have been better...I just know that being out of the car is definitely better than being in it.

Finally, when we came to a village called Opua, we boarded a car ferry that would take us over to the Island where we were headed...to the village called Russell. It is still pounding rain, and not looking like we will see sunshine for a good long time. So...normally, you board a car ferry & get out, go above board, and ferry over to your destination. Not apparently on this ferry...you drive on, and stay in your vehicle. It seemed like 2 minutes after we boarded the ferry we were ferrying across the water...and we were! Before 10 minutes passed, we were driving off the ferry on the shore to drive to our destination. Russell, was at one time the capital of NZ.The capital has since moved to Wellington, which is in the south- eastern part of the North Island. We had reservations, thanks to Rob, at 'The Duke of Marlborough',an inn right on the waterfront looking out to the Bay of Islands. This Inn was on 'The Strand'...a tiny, one way street in this little, tiny, town. First we went the wrong way, and thought the inn was a private residence...but after a call to 'The Duke' we found that we were on the opposite end of 'The Strand'. So, off to the other end, and finally, out of the car!

I will have to concede that after we unpacked our car & got a little settled, our hike out to Long Beach was very refreshing. One thing about the Kiwi's...they make walking a priority, and their paths are very well thought out, and very well kept. By the time we started walking over to Long Beach, the clouds were finally parting, and blue sky's & sunshine looked to be the new wave of weather. Thank goodness...Rain gets very tiresome after a while. It was as calm as ever @ Long Beach, and we noticed a cove to the left of us with a tree full of birds. So, we had to figure out how to get over to that cove, which we did, and then we saw the birds. They looked a lot like our Cormorants, except that they were black & white, and these birds were kind of skinnier, with very long necks. We think they were called Gannets, as everyone here always talks about the Gannets..especially on the west coast. I have since figured out that these birds we saw were not gannets...so I will need to ask my friend, Margaret what they are, as she is quite a birder. On our walk back to our inn, the sun was just setting...and the colors were supreme! Sunset was around 8:30...hard to imagine when back in the states darkness falls sometime close to 5:30pm. Still, I am messed up with Winter/Summer...my brain has not accepted that this is Summertime here!

Tuesday morning we awoke to a perfect, calm harbour. Tui birds were singing in the Puhutakowa trees that lined 'The Strand', and all was well with the world. We sat out on the deck of 'The Duke', and had our continental breakfast trying to decide what activity we would participate in...would it be a charter boat to swim with the dolphins?, a charter boat to sail around the Bay of Islands?, a charter boat that was a Pirate Ship, that taught youngsters about the sea?, a day at the beach?, or a tramp in the bush? The final decision was a tramp in the bush, so we set off to go tramping. For all of you who are scratching your heads and wondering what I have been smoking...a tramp in the bush, means in our language, a hike in the woods. Our tramp in the bush turned out to be so spectacular...I have never been in such a fern forest!! There were Ferns, of course, and tea trees, and manuka bush/trees, and all kinds of shrubs & flowers that I recognized, and that I have never seen...pictures will follow this link. The entire time we began our tramp, we were serenaded by cicada bugs. Have you ever heard millions of cicada bugs? At first it is kind of neat, but after a time, you begin to wonder if the bugs are in your ears! Then, they begin to irritate you completely, and make you feel like you have gone mad! They are so loud! We tramped down, down, down to a beautiful cove on the shore. Which meant we had to tramp back up, up, up...the view at the top was amazing! A 360 degree view of gorgeous islands and ocean. Another moment to be pinching oneself! The beauty is quite astounding.

Wednesday morning found us surrounded in thick, dense, fog. It was our day to check out of 'The Duke', and make our way back to our little village of Devonport. Checked out right around 10am and started our journey south, once again on the 'Southern Motorway'. More twists and turns, once again, but thankfully, the traffic was on our side & we were back home in record time. It was, by the way, New Year's Eve, and we did not want to spend our entire day in the car. We had a nice, quiet, re-introduction back to the house...naps, checking in with e-mail & Skype, and lots of laundry.

Then, it was time to make dinner because the kids were planning to go to the city to celebrate with the young crowd. Rob & I were quite happy to stay home, watching the fire works from our front patio @ midnight. About 10 minutes after the kids left for the city, another torrent of rain poured down, just soaking everything. Both kids had left with no excess...and that meant that they left with no jackets/umbrellas, etc...As soon as it poured...it stopped, and once again we could see the Sky Tower in the distance.It seems like even though it is 'Summer' here...we tend to get 4 seasons in one day...and, all Aucklander's will tell you that that is the norm. Rain, certainly does not slow them down...it is just us whimpy, Yanks! They even sail in the rain!! Ross & Emily arrived home just before midnight because they had been turned away at the pubs & clubs in Auckland due to the fact they they only had their Ca. Driver's licenses,not their passports, and Ross was not wearing long pants. Every establishment they tried to get in to turned them away. :( . So, they came home to watch the fireworks with old mom & dad. Our neighbors, Paul & Margaret also came out to view the show at midnight. So we rang in 2009 with fireworks, although, Rob thinks Sonoma's 4th of July fireworks were a better show! It was pretty, and clear at the moment...so a good time was had by all. About 3am, and here came more rain...much more rain, so it made it easy to sleep in on New Year's Day.

January 1, 2009...can it already be a whole month since we left Sonoma? A lot of changes have taken place. If you saw me before we left, you would have known that I was quite wound up over all of this moving stuff. Especially those of you that came over the day before we left...I apologize for my intensity...I was just trying to seal everything up, and I was definitely running out of time. Since we have arrived here, and received our shipment...and even put things away...I have realized how easy it is to operate without all that stuff we have packed away, stored in our garage. The trip to 'The Hillbilly Inn' was a lesson in excess, and it gave me much food for thought. Better to go out in life, experiencing adventure, than to have stuff weigh you down! These are my profound thoughts for the moment. Happy New Year!! I hope this year brings you all a lightness that brightens your path! Cheers!

PS...Photos will post soon...just have to go through the best ones to post a link on Picasa web albums. Could take me a few days...or longer...

New Words for my Vocubulary

2008-12-11T17:41:00.000-08:00

New Words for my Vocabulary

After a little over a week, I am discovering quite a few words that are different. This morning I took a Swiss Ball Class, and the other participants threw out some differences in our words. There is the car park, and that could be a parking lot, or a garage. While shopping in the super market, you see capsicums…not bell peppers, crudités, not zucchini, coriander instead of cilantro, tom ah toes…not tomatoes, Herbs pronounced as her bs, trim milk instead of non-fat, aubergine, not eggplant. Stuffing it up means that you really messed up, and I am a Yank, which is not entirely a bad thing…in fact much better than how we are classified by the Ozzies…the Ozzies call us Sepos…which means septic, as in septic tank. Ouch!! Best not to tell an Ozzie that you are American. And…American is pronounced A meeri can, usually with a high pitch in their voice. I think I would rather be called a yank.

The swiss ball class is quite a challenge, as our instructor, Derek, has declared that we will all be proud to show off our abs for Christmas. Maybe he will…and maybe I will be proud of mine by the time next Christmas rolls around. I could barely move the day after my first class. Derek is a retired University professor…kind of reminds me of a wild scientist…turned fitness trainer. He has a following of 50-60+ aged ladies who throw out heaps of praise on him. He is very mindful of all the exercise movements, and really makes sure you have the proper form. It is a great class to go to if you find yourself making excuses as to why you don’t do abs/weights after your cardio workout. So, twice a week I have entertainment and lessons from my exercise mates! Today after class I was invited to join some of the women in class to share a coffee at a local coffee house. These ladies will be my resources for setting us up here in Devonport. They had all kinds of recommendations, and my head was swirling just trying to keep up with their speech.

Last night I was Skyping with a friend back home when I noticed my patio neighbor, Dottie waving her arms, wildly at me. I gave her the signal that I would be done in a minute, and proceeded to finish up my call. Dottie was inviting me over to her patio for a glass of wine and some nibbles. Nibbles would = appetizers, or finger foods. Dottie is an Ozzie, who is married to Hamish who is from Scotland. They have two sons, Angus, 17 & Finn, 13, and an adorable Scottish terrier named Terry. He is like a little inspector, as he makes sure we are all safe from the traffic below on the street. So, I buttoned up over here, and went over to Dottie’s. She was enjoying a girl’s night, and her friend Jenn was there as well. They had a time with my accent…apparently, I wasn’t pronouncing things properly. Especially, Dottie’s name. Oops…so all day I have been practicing…she explained that it should sound like door ty. And Takapuna, a city to the north of us here in Devonport is pronounced…Takapuner. Don’t know where they get their r’s at the end of a word that ends with an a. Hmmn. I’ll just try to learn the proper way, and then they won’t be correcting me.
We had a wonderful time visiting…watching the world go by on the bay, and laughing at her friend, Jenn’s, stories. Rob came home and found us all rolling in laughter. Dottie broke her girl’s only rule, and invited Rob over to join us. She passed out blankets because by now there was quite a chill settling in with the wind. There seems to always be a breeze here…and, sometimes it is a gale. We sat listening to Dottie tell us of her trip to South Africa, and how they encountered wild animals on their journey. Not sure if I could handle so many dangerous animals on a holiday. Thankfully, New Zealand doesn’t have any dangerous animals…not even snakes.

So it is Friday afternoon here, and I am looking forward to getting some time with Rob for the weekend. He has been exceptionally busy at work with guys in from Napa. Arriving home after 9pm all week, so I know he is looking forward to the weekend. We still do not have our shipment, as the MAF has not finished inspecting it. I am crossing my fingers for delivery early next week. Sunday, we may take a ferry ride out to Waiheke Island & tour around. There are so many Islands around here to explore, it will definitely take us a few years just to get this area down.

Cheers!

2008-12-08T08:38:00.000-08:00

Home in Devonport First Week In Devonport
Home in Devonport

Well, I started writing about our experiences since we arrived on Wednesday, December 3, but somehow my post disappeared into cyber space. So, I am going to post a short summary of what I remember writing.

First of all...it is a long flight here for any of you who want to visit. After 10 hours you wish there was a personal masseuse to rub out the knots...and your ankles just puff up like you have never seen. Definitely do not take your shoes off or they will be very difficult to put back on. I just do not sit still for that length of time. So when the plane landed I was gearing to get off & walk! Customs was an adventure. Here is a hint...when the mark your arrival/declaration page with a red marker, not a green one, you can figure that you will be asked to show your luggage. The MAF (Ministry of Agriculture & Farming), has very strict bio security rules. You can not bring with you any forein soil, any foods, plants, seeds, pods, plant cuttings...and the list goes on and on. They had to take Rob's hiking boots & sterilize them. Thankfully, they checked our other shoes realatively quickly, and we were on to the x-ray machines. Traveling with 6 huge carry on bags was a bit of a circus act, and when we cleared customs and found a super shuttle, I was really grateful to be done with all that lugging of luggage. We just had to get all that luggage up to the apartment once we got to Devonport. Taking a super shuttle was the best plan ever...they took the luggage & they did the driving. Much better than my last experience here when Rob rented a car & then for the first time ever drove on the opposite side of the car, and the opposite side of the road. That was quite terrifying. This was a breeze, in comparrision. We were greeted by Margaret, the land lady as she was leaving for work. She is a third grade teacher in Mt. Eden which is across the bay in Auckland, City. She & Paul had decorated the table & mantel with flowers, and left a pitcher of milk in the fridge in case we wanted to make some coffee. Very sweet! Rob promptly fell into bed to get some rest, and I started trying to figure out how to get set up electronically. Because, without my computer..I have no contact with home.When Rob awoke, we ventured into the village to try & sign up for a PO Box. Rob also needed an IRD#. An IRD# is a number sort of like a social security #...You must have one if you have a job. While he was waiting in line for all that business, I was signing up for a gym membership at the local gym. I will be having my first personal training session this morning! Yay! We then stocked our tiny fridge & cup boards. You can only fit a quart of milk in this fridge, so it is nothing like the mega fridges we have in the states. You really have to think hard about what you are buying, because there is literally no space here for overstock. Luckily the market is only about an 8 minute walk.Speaking of space...putting away all of our luggage was like doing a puzzle...and we haven't even received our shipment yet! We may need to have a garage sale to deal with the excess. It took me a full day to organize all that luggage. Now it seems like we are not on vacation...even though this place has an absolutely incredible view. You could watch the boats all day long...the scenery is changing by the minute. Sunday was the most spectacular showing of boats. It was a post card kind of day. We started off the day by going to the Santa Parade. The most adorable children were there waiting for Santa to arrive.They had the Navy band playing in the park, and the floats in the parade were precious. I think the whole town was there!I went exporing around town after the parade & Rob went back to the apartment to catch a nap. We hiked up around North Head in the afternoon. This is such an active lifestyle here. So many people were out sailing, boating, swimming, cycling, running, walking, hiking, playing crickett...you name it, Sunday is the family day out. Well, time to get active & get on to the gym!! I hope you are all doing well, and staying warm. I still can't wrap my brain around the weather here...my mind says I should be in Winter, and the weather is warm, sunny with a light breeze! Cheers!PS...Many of you have asked what a Flat White is...that would be their term for a latte. A trim flat white is a non-fat latte. A parking lot is a car park...and many words are spelled differently. Luckily it is all english, and I can figure out most of what is going on.
Labels: First Week In Devonport

Are we really moving away?

2008-11-26T10:42:00.000-08:00

If you would have told me a year ago that Rob & I would be moving to New Zealand on December 1, 2008 I would have thought you were nuts. We have lived in the cozy town of Sonoma since 1982, and we are always grateful to return here after our travels. Sonoma is our home. We have raised our children here...we are very connected to this place and all of our friends and family. Sonoma is a place that when you go to the market, you literally visit with half the town before you even get to the check out stand. So, when Rob came home one day in May and asked me if I would consider moving to New Zealand I said yes without even blinking. And then I started thinking...would this really happen? Could we really leave Sonoma? After Rob went back to the corporate office in Milwaukee to interview for the position it seemed remotely possible as they told him that he was one of many applicants for the assignment. Then, in August, the company sent Rob & me to check out NZ to see if we could re locate there. They even set us up with a relocation company to show us houses/apartments should Rob be the chosen one. All this uncertainty...until August 28, 2008 when Rob was formally offered the position of BEP Marine site leader. That day was just a blur ago... Since then there has been a mountain of paperwork and events that have led up to our departure date of December 1, 2008.

We have leased a small, 2 bedroom apartment that is part of a larger, victorian house on the waterfront in Devonport. We have an incredible view of the waterfront, and the Auckland City skyline. I have always wanted to live near a big city, so this is fulfilling one of my dreams. From our house we have a short, eight minute walk to the ferry building, and then a very short, 12 minute ferry ride to Auckland Harbor. My plan is to be able to cycle, walk and use ferry service to get around. I will not be rushing to drive anytime soon, as everything about driving is really quite terrifying...and completely backward from what I have ever been taught. Being a passenger is a daunting experience...my brain just has not accepted the fact that you drive on the opposite side of the street, on the opposite side of the car, yielding to the right in the roundabouts, remembering to look over the right shoulder...not just the left shoulder...my head is in constant look out mode. Just plain too stressful. It will be interesting to see how long I stay out of the driver's seat. Hmmn...

Rob has been down to NZ for the better part of October to get started on his assignment. I have been busy wrapping up the house here in Sonoma...finishing all the remodeling and completing the front yard landscape...just in time to move away! Now we are both here in Sonoma busily wrapping up all loose ends. If you have not moved recently, you will find that you accumulate ridiculous piles of stuff. Since early October I have been donating masses of stuff to anyone that will take it. It is shocking how much stuff we hang on to...it is very liberating to purge. Then, there are the hours & hours pouring over the sentimental bits of our lives...pictures, journals, albums, treasure boxes that we have been saving since our own childhoods...and they go back in another cleaner, more organized box on the shelves in the garage. We will encounter these memories the next time we need to "organize" our stuff. I never knew we could have so many photos!!

We are now deep into my office, clearing out files, cleaning out the desk. Our moving shipment to NZ was only 200 cubic feet, so we really couldn't pack that much. The day the movers came I had inventoried everything even down to the # of pairs of underwear...really! I also had to place a value on the whole lot...just in case it get lost at sea. Our shipment is currently somewhere out to sea between here & NZ. It is expected to arrive at Auckland Harbor on Dec. 6th. Then we will be in the queue for customs, as NZ customs & immigration will be going through our shipment with a fine tooth comb. That is according to the NZ Vanlines moving company that is scheduled to deliver to us.

I am just looking forward to getting there, and nesting. It seems that our house here has been in such a flux since we started the final phase of re-modeling that I do not know what settled is anymore. Once I get settled...the kids will be arriving for Christmas, and our adventuring will begin. We are really looking forward to Ross & Emmy's visit. And...I am really stoked that we will miss the wet, dreary winter season...it is springtime in NZ right now!! Flowers are blossoming, birds are singing! So...we really are moving, and I'll be updating this blogspot periodically to let you all know how we are doing half a world away from here. We will miss all our wonderful family and friends, and hope that you all stay in touch while we are gone. If by chance you find yourself in NZ, we hope you look us up!